The idea to expand Heathrow Airport has been in the works for almost two decades. However, recently it took a giant leap forward with two bids for the project. There is plenty of support for the expansion and creation of a third runway. At the same time, there is opposition and concerns about the impact, especially on the environment. We want to take a closer look at the plans here because they could lead to one of the biggest infrastructure projects and some of the most crucial commercial architecture in the UK.
Heathrow plans
The first proposal is from Heathrow Airport itself. They’re proposing a massive £49bn project. It would create a 3,500m third runway, a new terminal, new parkways, modernisation of the current infrastructure, and various enhancements, including rail, bus/coach, cycling, and walking connections.
Heathrow’s estimate is it would almost double the capacity of the airport. They are currently operating close to the limits of what they can do, serving 84 million passengers per year as well as providing a hub for trade. The project would allow them to serve up to 150 million travellers, including more destinations.
One of the most interesting parts of the proposal is it would involve a diversion of the M25 to make room for the massive third runway. This would involve moving it 100m west, a new tunnel, and widening. The planners are saying it is an opportunity to improve the motorway, increase capacity, and make it safer.
Arora plans
Interestingly, Heathrow’s plans weren’t the first to see the light of day. Arora Group actually published their proposals a few days earlier. They have some crucial differences. Most notably, they are proposing to create a shorter, 2,800m third runway and a new terminal with commercial architecture. This would mean there is no need to make changes to the M25.
Arora’s plans would cost less than £25bn. However, this does not factor in the funding it would require to redevelop other parts of the airport. In their breakdown, Heathrow would spend £15bn on improving the existing infrastructure. So, it could be a similar cost here depending on the details.
Dividing opinion
There is a lot of support for the proposals to expand Heathrow, including backing from the Labour Government. Crucially, there would be benefits such as increasing connectivity, new jobs, and new trading opportunities. Business groups are supporting the proposals too, stating it would be beneficial for the future of the UK. Crucially, it would add a massive amount to annual GDP.
The responses to the plans aren’t all positive though. Notably, Greenpeace UK said there would be a massive “pollution problem”. A number of politicians were vocal in their opposition too, including Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan. There are concerns about the impact on the environment, local people, and the transport infrastructure. The London Borough of Hillingdon is also opposed to expanding the airport.
Talk to us if you’re planning commercial architecture
It will be really interesting to see what happens next. Over the years there have been several proposals for a third runway at Heathrow. Some had significant backing, including in 2009 and 2018. However, none came to fruition. It is notable that there are two bids this time, but there is still the significant hurdle of getting planning permission and delivery.
Coffey Architects has a lot of experience with commercial architecture, including offices, mixed use developments, and more. So, we know how important it is to get the designs right. They need to carefully balance performance, the experience for staff and customers, and factors such as sustainability and the environment. We can create the perfect designs for clients, supporting them with achieving their goals.
So, if you need any help, please contact us.