Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 09:00 - 17:30 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
Or call 0345 90 80 161
05 May 2016 07:49
Heathrow Airport leaders want a third runway
"Political dithering" is costing holidaymakers and the British economy dearly, according to a committee of MPs who want a decision on south-east England's new runway.
A final announcement on whether to expand Heathrow Airport or Gatwick was originally due in 2015, but the Government has shelved the decision until environmental impact investigations are carried out.
Members of the Commons' Transport Select Committee want increased airport capacity in the region to help meet demand for air travel in the years ahead.
Impact tests
They say that each month wasted is hurting the British economy, with the g roup's chairwoman Louise Ellman calling on ministers to get a move on.
The Labour MP wants a final decision to be made while environmental tests are carried out.
Ms Ellman says ministers should have ended their "political dithering" last year and accepted the Airports Commission's recommendation to build a third runway at Heathrow.
She says that Britain's reputation as a leading airport provider could be left behind as more than 50 new runways around the globe reach the planning stage.
Rushed decision
But the Government's Department for Transport (DfT) argues that a rushed decision could bring the wrong result.
It says the environmental impact tests are likely to be finished this summer, with the results helping to reduce the effect of the the new runway on local residents.
A statement from Gatwick says that several years of false beginnings and delays can only come to an end by giving Gatwick the go-ahead for expansion.
Meanwhile, a Heathrow spokesman says that all the independent evidence favours that airport for the new runway scheme.
The British Chambers of Commerce's interim director general Adam Marshall says that the business world also wants to see a decision on the new runway fast.
Holidaymakers can take out travel insurance, which can protect against things like lost passports or stolen belongings.
15 May 2019
Get inspired for a summer of music, travel and adventure with our guide to some of the best music festivals around Europe.
[more...]
07 May 2019
Thinking of visiting Spain? There are some excellent reasons to explore the country this spring and summer, from football finals to eating snails - so don't miss out!
Want to learn a new language without the hassle of going to classes? Check out our guide to the best free apps on the market and get yourself holiday-ready in no time.
03 May 2019
Why are there two bank holidays in May? Why do we celebrate May Day? These questions and more are answered in our look at the origins of the May bank holidays...
30 April 2019
Experience the magic of Matera! The 2019 European Capital of Culture, Southern Italy's famous ancient city of caves is the perfect place for a weekend away.
Get inspired for a last-minute getaway this bank holiday weekend! We explore five alternative European city break destinations perfect for a weekend away.
18 April 2019
How much do you know about Spain? Read up on some fascinating facts about Spain and learn more about magical mice, liquid gold and big pay-outs.
16 April 2019
Keen to see first-hand who gets crowned champions of Europe? Europe's biggest football match takes place in Madrid: here's your guide to everything you need to know.
Going away with your children? Beat the stress of travelling with your family with these great travel tips. Here's what you need to know if you're travelling with kids this Easter.
Heading to Madrid? Here's our guide to six must-see places you should visit in the Spanish capital, from food markets to fine art and plenty in between.
10 April 2019
Experience the magic of Madrid's Fiesta de San Isidro 2019! Discover where to stay, what to eat and what to see as you explore one of Spain's greatest festivals.
Experience Seville's intoxicating Feria de Abril and discover Andalucía's most famous festival! Here's your ultimate guide to La Feria.