Ealing Council Say No to Heathrow Expansion

Express concern over increase in noise pollution and environmental impact

 
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Ealing Council has reiterated its opposition to the expansion of Heathrow Airport and formally responded to the second round of consultation.   

The council believes current plans would create unacceptable levels of noise and pollution for the borough's residents and is calling for a £190million package of mitigation and investment for the borough, should expansion go ahead.  This includes better insulation for home owners to combat noise and increasing the catchment area covered by the scheme. 

There are calls  too for improved public transport, so airport passengers and employees can travel to the airport by greener means, reducing air pollution locally. In addition, it wants greater investment in skills and employment. 

The council is also insisting on a commitment to a total night time flight ban to combat noise pollution in area.

Councillor Julian Bell, leader of Ealing Council said: “We understand the importance of Heathrow both locally, nationally and globally and we want it to thrive.    

“But, this can't be at any cost, there has to be a balance between the economic benefits and the very real noise and environmental impacts of expansion on local people.  As well as increased noise and pollution from flights we remain concerned about the impact of increased traffic in the area. 

“We want to work constructively with Heathrow Airport and Heathrow Strategic Planning Group (HSPG) partners, and I see us taking the role of critical friend rather than foe. Despite some positive engagement, we haven't really seen much movement on some of the concessions we've been seeking. 

“We want to see far more ambition and detailed proposals on health and wellbeing, transport, economy, employment and skills, noise and emissions, and planning and housing; and how these goals will be achieved.

“I'm particularly disappointed that ideas to get people out of the cars which seem like a no-brainer to me, haven't been progressed.  For example, we've asked for a segregated cycle link between Southall and the airport which would really help to deliver a significant change in behaviour and give airport workers a greener way to travel.”

 

September 19, 2019

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