Aviation review creates ‘unacceptable uncertainty’ for London residents

The body that lobbies on behalf of London’s borough councils has criticized the review set up to examine the future of the UK’s aviation industry. 

The Airport Commission, which has been tasked with finding ways to improve and increase the country’s airport capacity amid fierce opposition to a possible third runway at Heathrow Airport.

But London Councils today said it was “disappointing that there is no community representation” on the commission.

Commission chairman Sir Howard Davies outlined his plans and unveiled his team on Friday. He will publish an interim report by the end of the year.

Cllr Catherine West said: “A decision about airports serving London will have a huge impact on the communities which boroughs serve and councils could have provided a voice for residents and businesses as well as highlighted planning and transport implications of aviation expansion.”

She also agreed with London Mayor Boris Johnson’s view that it should make its recommendations quicker than the three year timetable set by the Government.

Cllr West added: “A decision on options for airport expansion should be made much sooner than summer 2015.

This is too late and brings unacceptable uncertainty to communities living close to affected airports and could have a negative impact on London’s economy.”

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