Heathrow Hub has filed papers at the High Court seeking a review of transport secretary Chris Grayling’s decision to recommend the airport’s own expansion scheme, which was approved by MPs in June.
The airport’s ambition is to create a new north west runway. Heathrow Hub favours expansion through extension of the airport’s existing northern runway and separating it into two.
It says its plans would be at least £2 billion cheaper, would cause less disruption to local communities, and would likely be quieter and more environmentally friendly.
The group’s challenge comes after five London and south east councils launched their own joint review on grounds of air quality, climate impact, noise pollution and access, with the backing of mayor of London Sadiq Khan.
Heathrow Hub, in its submission, raises five grounds for challenge, stating Grayling’s decision to favour Heathrow’s own plans was “unlawful”.
It further states the Department for Transport made “factually incorrect assumptions” over the capacity the favoured scheme would deliver and the likely noise impact.
The DfT has previously said it will “robustly” defend against any legal challenge and was confident in its decision to support Heathrow airport own expansion bid.
