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Airports Commission backs new runway at Heathrow

A long-awaited report by the Airport Commission into airport capacity has recommended that a new runway should be built at Heathrow rather than Gatwick.

The options considered were a third runway at Heathrow, extending an existing one, or building a second runway at Gatwick.

The commission recommended a new runway at Heathrow providing a "comprehensive" package of measures be undertaken, including a ban on night flights, a new levy to fund insulation for homes, schools and other community facilities around Heathrow, and an independent noise authority.

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Heathrow expansion 'right for the UK and industry'

A computer generated image of the new runways proposal. Credit: Heathrow Aiport

Business and trade unions appear to have broadly welcomed the prospect of a third runway at Heathrow Airport in West London.

Terry Scuoler, chief executive of EEF, the manufacturers' organisation, said:

Heathrow is a global freight hub and the clear preference for manufacturers with a business need for aviation expansion. Today's recommendation that Heathrow should be allowed to expand is the right one for industry and the country.

– Terry Scuoler, EEF

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