Runnymede communities under threat from Labour's Heathrow plans

The Liberal Democrats have reaffirmed their opposition to Heathrow's third runway following Labour Chancellor Rachel Reeves' surprising announcement supporting the expansion.

Don Whyte, Co-Leader of Runnymede Council, said: "A third runway would have devastating consequences for our local communities in Runnymede. Our residents in Egham, Englefield Green and Virginia Water already endure significant aircraft noise. This expansion would mean more flights, more noise, and worse air quality for local families."

The Liberal Democrats' position is clear - airport expansion at Heathrow is incompatible with tackling the climate emergency and protecting local communities. The party's manifesto explicitly opposes Heathrow expansion and instead advocates investing in sustainable transport alternatives.

For Runnymede residents, a third runway would mean:

• Increased aircraft noise, with more frequent flights and potential new flight paths affecting previously peaceful areas.
• Worse air quality, particularly along the M25, M3 and A30 corridors.
• Greater congestion on our already strained local roads. 
• Additional pressure on our precious Green Belt land.
• Potential impacts on overall quality of life.

"While proponents talk about economic benefits, the reality is that Runnymede would bear many of the costs without seeing significant advantages," added Cllr. Whyte. "Our residents would face more pollution, more noise, and more congestion, while the supposed benefits flow elsewhere."

The Liberal Democrats believe in alternative solutions that better serve both the local communities and the environment. This includes investing in rail infrastructure, improving regional connectivity, and supporting sustainable transport options that don't compromise our climate commitments or quality of life.

Any airport expansion must align with the UK's legally binding climate targets under the Paris Agreement. A third runway at Heathrow would make these targets virtually impossible to achieve.

Runnymede's Liberal Democrat councillors are committed to fighting this expansion and protecting our local communities. We call on residents to join us in opposing these plans and supporting sustainable alternatives that don't sacrifice our environment and local quality of life.

For more information on the Liberal Democrats' transport and environmental policies, see section 16 of our manifesto: https://www.libdems.org.uk/manifesto