Cabinet considered a report on the Government Consultation on the Draft Airports National Policy Statement.

The report explained that the Government was consulting on the Draft Airports National Policy Statement and the UK Airspace Policy document.  Two exhibition events have been held locally; at Stanwell Moor Village Hall (Tuesday 28 February) and in Egham (Monday 20 February) at which detailed information on both documents was available.  The consultation period closes 25 May 2017.

Alternative options considered and rejected by the Cabinet:

·         Not to respond to the consultation.

Resolved to:

1.    Respond to the Draft Airports National Policy Statement as per Appendix 1 of the report;

2.    Support the proposed formation of an Independent Commission on Civil Aviation Noise, in response to the UK Airspace Policy document.

Reason for the decision:

Cabinet supports the expansion of Heathrow subject to noise, air quality and transport issues being resolved.  It is therefore important to respond to these consultation documents as they will influence the way in which detailed proposals for expansion are assessed.