Heathrow Decision Time

Union and business leaders have joined the growing list of supporters, urging the government to approve a third runway at Heathrow airport, claiming that an expansion would safeguard over 150,000 jobs, as well as the competitiveness of the British economy.

It is widely expected that Gordon Brown will approve plans this week, despite the fact that many members of his own party have expressed reservations. Airport owner BAA has confirmed that it needs a new runway in order to meet passenger demand.

Richard Lambert, Director-general of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), said: "Heathrow is our gateway to the world and we need to ensure that it remains a world-class airport capable of serving the needs of a global economy."

It is argued that major competing airports around Europe have already begun to expand and are waiting to take full advantage when the market begins to recover – something which Heathrow must capitalise on.

Opponents of a third runway at Heathrow include local residents and environmentalists, who are both vowing to continue to fight any expansion plans. Later today, environmental protesters will gather at Heathrow's Terminal 1 to demonstrate against the expansion. Many protesters have vowed to continue their fight whatever the decision by the government.  John Stewart, chairman of the Heathrow Association for the Control of Aircraft Noise (HACAN) and No Third Runway Action Group (NoTRAG) said a legal challenge would be mounted if the decision went against them:

"People will fight the government in the courts, in their communities, in the town halls and, if necessary, on the tarmac of Heathrow Airport." Many opponents have called for a new high-speed rail link between UK cities rather than a third runway – something which is supported by the Conservatives.