Any proposed expansion of Heathrow Airport must first address the pressing issue of travel capacity, which is already under significant strain, a Surrey council has warned. With millions of additional passengers and staff expected, Surrey County Council has emphasized the need for major infrastructure improvements before any further growth can proceed.
Earlier this week, Chancellor Rachel reaffirmed support for a third runway at Heathrow as part of a broader strategy to stimulate the UK economy. While the council acknowledges the economic benefits the airport brings to the county, it highlighted the existing congestion on the M25, M4, and surrounding rail networks, warning that expansion would exacerbate these issues.
Matt Furniss, Surrey’s lead member for transport and economic growth, stressed that any expansion must satisfactorily address environmental and surface access concerns. He called on the government to take a leadership role in establishing a “clear and agreed framework for the necessary infrastructure.”
A third runway, as currently planned, would be located to the northwest of the existing two runways, requiring the rerouting of a section of the M25 underground. National Highways has identified the stretch between junction 10 and Heathrow as the busiest section of the M25, already struggling with traffic volume.
Rail expansion has also faced hurdles, with previous plans to build a new line across Staines Moor to improve links to London Waterloo encountering a £700m funding shortfall.
Furniss reiterated the council’s commitment to working constructively with the government, Heathrow Airport, and national agencies to ensure that any expansion prioritizes the needs of Surrey’s residents and businesses while safeguarding local infrastructure.
