Heathrow third runway decision delayed until summer at earliest for further environmental consideration

A decision over whether to build a controversial third runway at Heathrow Airport has been delayed.

The government has said the location decision is "subject to further consideration on environmental impacts and the best possible mitigation measures."

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In a statement, Downing Street said ministers had agreed on the shortlist of options highlighted by the Airports Commission - which includes both Heathrow and rival bidder Gatwick - with a view to expanding runway capacity in the south-east by 2030.

The government faces a "complex and challenging decision" on delivering this capacity, the statement added, with further analysis needed on the Commission's conclusions in terms of air quality and greenhouse gases.

Ministers will also work towards developing the "best possible package" of measures to mitigate the impact on people living nearby and the environment, the statement added.

The government hopes to conclude its work by the summer.

Mitigation measures will include:

  • Compensation for local communities

  • New jobs and apprenticeships for local people

  • Noise reduction measures

Protests have been held at Heathrow over the plans for years, including this one in 2008 Credit: PA

ITV News deputy political editor Chris Ship tweeted:

The statement from Prime Minister David Cameron's office added that the airports bidding for a new runway would be expected to put forward "ambitious solutions" to reduce the environmental impact.

Speaking after a cabinet meeting tonight, Secretary of State for Transport, Patrick McLoughlin, said it was "vitally important" the government gets the decision right.