The High Court on 1st May 2019 rejected legal challenges against Heathrow Airport’s decades-long campaign to expand the aviation centre. The challenge was brought by local councils, residents, environmental charities and London Mayor Sadiq Khan after the House of Commons voted in favour of building the runway, approving transport secretary Chris Grayling’s National Policy Statement by 415 votes to 119 in June 2018.
During a two-week hearing in March, campaigners argued that the plans would effectively create a “new airport” with the capacity of Gatwick. They also argued the expansion would have “severe” consequences for Londoners and would impact on air quality, climate change and noise levels. However, their cases were dismissed by two leading judges on Wednesday 1st May 2019.
It is not yet clear if campaigners will appeal the verdict, however following the judgement, Transport Secretary Chris Grayling said, “I now call on all public bodies not to waste any more taxpayers’ money or seek to further delay this vital project.”
We are currently representing homeowners affected by the proposed expansion and aim to represent more in the future. To find out more about how we could help you if you are affected by the expansion of Heathrow, call us on 020 3011 5300 or e-mail info@sawyerfielding.co.uk.