The UK’s airports could be expanded, including Heathrow’s controversial third runway, as part of the government’s growth plans.
The Treasury is exploring whether to support a third runway at Heathrow, approve a second runway at Gatwick and increase capacity at Luton Airport, although a government spokesperson said it would ” don’t comment on speculation.”
The new Labor government has made economic growth a key part of its message, with Chancellor Rachel Reeves pledging to go “further and faster”.
Reeves could make an announcement about airports next week in a speech, according to the BBC.
The Chancellor will arrive in Davos on Tuesday for the World Economic Forum, where she will declare the UK “on the rise” as she meets business leaders and investors from around the world.
A government spokesperson said: “We are determined to revive our economy and secure the long-term future of the UK’s aviation sector.
“All expansion proposals must demonstrate that they contribute to economic growth, which is at the heart of our Plan for Change, whilst remaining compliant with existing environmental obligations.”
Reviving growth has become more urgent after international markets cast doubt on the credibility of the UK’s economic plans, with the country’s borrowing costs soaring and the pound falling.
Heathrow Airport boss Thomas Woldbye said in December his company needed “clear direction” from the new government by the end of 2025 on plans to expand the airport and construction of a third runway.
