More Views on Heathrow Expansion Proposals

It has been brought to my attention that the somewhat overlooked South East England Regional Assembly (SEERA) has spoken out against the proposals for expansion of Heathrow.

In its capacity to decide regional transport priorities Assembly Chairman, Cllr Paul Carter spoke up: "Heathrow plays a critical economic role but the Assembly remains against a third runway at the airport. We are sceptical that expansion can be squared with our own, and Government's, commitments to tackle climate change."

He also argued that the government let the unelected representative body take up the role it was designed for and called on the government to let it's Committee on Climate Change (CCC) offer a broad-based independent view. He also reiterated the urgency of stronger commitment to high-speed trains and the delivery of Airtrack.

Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce has also issued a statement offering cautious support for the plan on behalf of the 2,500 businesses it represents. Spokesperson Claire Prosser stressed the need for improved surface access (including high-speed rail links) to ensure the location remained a viable transport hub.

In the interests of balance here is the BAA site promoting expansion.

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In depth coverage of the controversial plans to expand Heathrow can be found here (see sidebar).