Heathrow Airport Limited (HAL) has submitted a planning application to Hillingdon Council for material works, including a new sound barrier in Longford and new taxiing areas at the northern runway’s western end.
These developments follow the 2009 government decision to end the ‘Cranford Agreement,’ allowing easterly departures from the northern runway. While no runway expansions or increased air traffic are planned, the proposals will enable operational changes to alternate runway use during easterly operations, aiming for fairer noise distribution.
With around 70 per cent of current air traffic operating westward, the new plans would offer neighbouring communities respite by alternating runway use during easterly operations. However, this change may lead to increased noise for households near the airport. A previous application for these operational changes was approved on appeal in 2017, but the works remain incomplete.
The planning application, reference 41573/APP/2024/2838, includes creating a new hold area, constructing taxiways, and installing an acoustic barrier south of Longford Village. This development requires an Environmental Impact Assessment under the Town and Country Planning Regulations 2017.
Residents of Hillingdon and nearby Hounslow are encouraged to review the plans and submit comments through Hillingdon Council’s Planning Portal by January 16, 2025.
Photo by Harrison Lugard on Unsplash
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