Government’s decision over where to build a new runway in the South East looks set to be delayed by a further six months over environmental concerns.

 

Prime Minister David Cameron gave a “guarantee” in Parliament on 1 July “that a decision will be made by the end of the year” following publication of the Airports Commission’s report that backed expansion of Heathrow.

 

But senior sources close to the process have now reportedly said there first needs to be more ‘confidence building’ about the environmental impact of a third runway at Heathrow. An announcement confirming the delay is expected tomorrow.

 

It has been suggested that the Prime Minister may wish to hold off on a decision until after the London Mayoral election next spring, for which Zac Goldsmith – an outspoken opponent of a third runway at Heathrow – is the Conservative candidate. Labour’s Mayoral candidate Sadiq Khan is also against expansion of Heathrow.

 

The Department for Transport confirmed this week that Parliament would be updated with a “statement” before the end of the year.

 

Earlier this week a senior Airports Commission source said he would be “very disappointed if the Prime Minister doesn’t make a decision before the end of the year”. 

 

A Heathrow Airport spokesman said yesterday: “The Airports Commission made a unanimous and unambiguous recommendation in June for Heathrow expansion. It’s the right decision for Britain. Let's make it happen.”

 

Gatwick Airport said it would not issue a statement until after tomorrow’s official announcement.

 

British Chambers of Commerce director general John Longworth said: “Businesses across the UK will be astonished if the Government once again delays taking a decision on a new runway.

 

“Ministers’ plans to boost prosperity, productivity and exports mean nothing if they cannot take hard decisions to press ahead with crucial infrastructure projects.”

 

(Photo: Heathrow Airport Limited)