Heathrow starts work on third runway planning application

Heathrow has begun work on a planning application for the airport’s expansion including a third runway, with a view to submitting plans in 2019.

The airport has made a flurry of appointments to its design team in recent weeks to work on the plans, after getting the nod to expand over rival Gatwick from the government this autumn.

Earlier this month, the client appointed engineers Amec Foster Wheeler, Arup, Atkins, Mott MacDonald and Jacobs and transport planner Quod to its design team, alongside confirming Grimshaw as architect.

Arup, CH2M, Mace and Turner & Townsend had earlier been named as client advisors on the project.

Heathrow said the first stage of work will start in the new year on wildlife and other environmental surveys of the local area.

While work on the planning application has begun in earnest, Heathrow expansion is dependent on a positive outcome from a year-long public consultation into the project and approval from both houses of parliament.

Heathrow’s expansion director Emma Gilthorpe said: “Heathrow has its team in place, working to deliver the benefits of expansion in the most sustainable way. 

“During the detailed planning process there will be lots of opportunities for local communities, industry partners and other interested parties to help shape our proposals. 

“Together, we want to create a plan that not only boosts the economy - locally and across the UK - but one that delivers a lasting legacy in the local area and tackles important local issues including reducing noise and meeting air quality requirements.”

Architect Grimshaw was appointed over the summer and beat a number of others to the role including Zaha Hadid Architects and HOK.