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Heathrow Airport, located in Longford TW6 (London, England), is one of the three busiest airports in the world and currently the largest in Europe. Since June 2018, the British government has announced plans to open a third runway in the northwest of the airport by 2026. However, this plan has faced significant opposition from climate activists, as the project is expected to destroy over 750 homes in the Longford area and severely impact the surrounding environment.
Recently, a London court ruled to halt the plan, stating that the Heathrow airport expansion was inconsistent with the UK's commitments to reduce CO2 emissions.2and mitigate climate change in accordance with the Paris Agreement. This ruling is considered "completely groundbreaking" and has significant implications for changing the perception of government agencies regarding climate change and requiring them to be prepared to take responsibility for urban development projects that negatively impact the environment.
Environmental activists were delighted to hear the court's ruling.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan expressed his support for the court's decision on Twitter, stating: "A new runway at Heathrow would have serious consequences for climate change, air quality, noise pollution, the road and rail transport network, and the quality of life in the city."
London Mayor Sadiq Khan
Following the ruling, UK Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said the government would not challenge the decision and would look for another location for the expansion plan: "Expanding the airport is core to strengthening global connectivity. Alongside that, we will also be committed to our environmental commitments."
However, Heathrow Airport representatives said they still want to proceed with the expansion plan. "We will appeal this matter to the Supreme Court and we believe we will succeed. Furthermore, we are prepared to work with the Government to resolve the issue raised by the court," a spokesperson for the airport said.
