Economists express apprehensions regarding proposed airport growth in correspondence addressed to Rachel Reeves
In a recent development, a group of 16 prominent economists from top UK universities, including Dr. Alex Chapman, senior economist at the New Economics Foundation, have penned an open letter to Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Transport Minister Heidi Alexander. The letter urges the government to reconsider lower-impact alternatives to the proposed expansion of Heathrow Airport.
The economists, academics, and transport experts, who also include environmental and community activists, local politicians, and advocacy groups, have expressed concerns about the economic case for airport expansion. Dr. Chapman, who helped coordinate the letter, stated that the economic benefits of airport expansion are questionable, with the decline of business reliance on air travel being a chief concern.
The letter signatories have described the claimed economic benefits of airport expansion as "at best uncertain." They further argue that there are no indications that the environmental and health impacts of airport expansion can be adequately mitigated.
The government-appointed inspectors assessing the Gatwick and Luton airport expansion proposals have recommended refusal for both, citing an imbalance of benefits and costs. This decision echoes the concerns raised in the open letter.
The New Economics Foundation, a charitable think tank independent of political parties and committed to transparency about funding, has been instrumental in coordinating this effort. The full letter can be found at the provided link.
The government has received outline proposals from business groups hoping to build Heathrow's third runway. However, before any proposals can be approved, the government has committed to reviewing the Airports National Policy Statement, which sets the decision-making criteria for a third runway at Heathrow.
The economists are advocating for a comprehensive and independent impact assessment of Heathrow's expansion. They believe that the upcoming review of the Airports National Policy Statement must involve a thorough and independent impact assessment to ensure a balanced and informed decision.
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