Cost of bridging M25 may see changes to Heathrow’s third runway plans

If plans to create a 3,500 meter third runway at Heathrow are to proceed, it will involve having to bridge a section of the M25, one of the UK and Europe’s busiest motorways. International Airline Group (IAG) estimate that the cost of this element alone would add a further £2-3 million to the current £17 billion budget, all of which has to be paid for by airline customers.
IAG has raised concerns with the government over both cost and complexity of the scheme. While accepting that Heathrow is the best option for an expansion program, the group considers the alternative option of a 3,200 meter a better option as it avoids breaching the M25, while still delivering on overall costing.
In addition, IAG also welcomes credible schemes from promoters other than Heathrow, believing this would ensure customers get the optimum scheme, an affordable price, and delivering a competitive new Heathrow for a post-Brexit UK economy.
According to IAG’s chief executive, Willie Walsh: “Airlines were never consulted on the runway length and they can operate perfectly well from a slightly shorter runway that doesn’t cross the M25. Bridging the M25 means years of disruption on a motorway already plagued by delays and congestion. As well as increased costs, this will have a huge impact not only on motorists but on local communities around Heathrow.
“The airport has yet to produce a business plan that assesses the financial implications and risks of bridging the M25. We will not pay for a runway that threatens both costs and delays spiraling out of control and where critical elements of the project could be undeliverable.
“Britain needs cost-effective airport infrastructure that benefits the country rather than Heathrow’s shareholders. It is already the world’s most expensive hub airport and customer charges must not increase to pay for the new runway. We urge the Government to benchmark Heathrow’s costs against other similar global schemes”.