Industry calls for Heathrow expansion. survey shows
Britain’s manufacturers are backing an expansion of additional capacity at Heathrow airport, a survey has found.
Almost 80% of the companies surveyed by EEF said they would vote in favour of having a second runaway built at Heathrow rather than seeing capacity increased at Gatwick, claiming it would be the best strategic fit for the manufacturing sector and the best option to secure a better balanced economy.
The call comes ahead of next Tuesday’s deadline for the Airport Commission’s final consultation on options for airport expansion.
“Expansion at Heathrow is clearly the best option for business and the country overall,” said EEF chief executive Terry Scuoler.
“It soars ahead of all other options in terms of frequency of flights, range of destinations and ease of access and manufacturers believe it is best to build on this success.”
“Airport capacity is critical to industry for exporting and, ultimately, for the UK economy. “
Scuoler added Britain was running out of time to make a decision and that its economy could suffer as a result.
“The Airports Commission has tackled this issue through a detailed process with extensive consultation and its final recommendation demands full support from Government,” he said.
“Our economy cannot wait any longer and we now need spades in the ground as soon as possible.”
The survey found that, when asked why Heathrow expansion would be preferable, 77% chose frequency of flights, 75% the range of destinations and 44% timing of flights.
Over 70% of companies cited Heathrow’s location as one the main reason behind their choice, claiming it is well placed on the strategic road network, allowing access from the vast majority of the country, a key aspect for freight.
According to Department for Transport figures 40% of non-European Union trade by value is sent by air, which makes the aviation industry vital to manufacturers, with 97% of export intensive companies describing it as critical.