The Arora Group has announced its “Heathrow West” proposal for the expansion of Heathrow Airport, marking the first time the UK Government has invited a competing proposal for this project.
Developed in collaboration with Bechtel, a global leader in airport development, the proposal aims to deliver a cost-efficient and environmentally friendly expansion. Key features include a new Terminal 6, located west of Terminal 5, and a 2,800-meter runway, with the runway operational by 2035 and Terminal 6 scheduled to open in two phases by 2040.
The proposal emphasises reduced land take and minimal disruption to local communities, alongside the potential for an integrated public transport hub to promote sustainable travel. It promises cost-efficiency benefits for passengers, freight forwarders, and airlines, with a simpler construction process that avoids building over the M25, thereby reducing costs and environmental impact.
Surinder Arora, founder and chairman of the Arora Group, expressed pride in unveiling the proposal, highlighting its alignment with the UK Government’s economic growth objectives. The proposal aims to secure planning permission by the end of the current Parliament, with a focus on delivering on time and on budget. The Arora Group’s track record in construction around Heathrow supports its capability to meet these goals.
Carlton Brown, chief executive officer of Heathrow West, emphasised the establishment of a dedicated business to focus on expansion, ensuring collaboration with airlines, communities, and businesses. The proposal aims to make Heathrow the world’s best-connected hub, thereby enhancing trade and investment opportunities for the UK.
The Arora Group’s focus on resilience and affordability is central to the proposal, promising operational benefits and savings that could enhance Heathrow’s global competitiveness. The collaboration with Bechtel leverages extensive construction expertise, offering a strategic approach to managing the complexities of large-scale infrastructure projects.
Sustainability is a core component, with the proposal targeting a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating. Innovative solutions aim to reduce carbon emissions, protect the green belt, and enhance local amenities. The Arora Group plans to work closely with stakeholders, such as the Environmental Agency, to ensure environmental and social benefits.
The proposal outlines a streamlined construction process that avoids the M25 crossing to reduce risks and costs. An ‘outside-in’ phasing approach and off-site fabrication methods are planned to minimise the construction footprint. The project is expected to be completed within 10 years, with most activities confined to the airport boundary, ensuring a timely and efficient delivery.
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