Four Conservative-led councils have threatened to sue the government if plans for a third runway at Heathrow Airport proceed. Solicitors representing Wandsworth, Hillingdon, Richmond, and Windsor and Maidenhead councils have written to Prime Minister David Cameron, arguing that the expansion would be 'irrational or otherwise unlawful'.
The Airports Commission recommended Heathrow expansion over Gatwick in July, but the government has said more work on environmental impact is needed. The councils' letter reminds Mr Cameron of his 2010 pledge to oppose a third runway 'no ifs, no buts'.
Solicitors Harrison Grant, who successfully opposed Heathrow expansion in the High Court six years ago, say the commission's assessment is 'flawed'. They argue conclusions on air quality 'were based upon an error of law' and that noise mitigation proposals rely on 'speculative' measures 'wholly rejected by the industry as unworkable'.
Lord True, leader of Richmond Council, said the letter represents the 100,000 people who voted against expansion in a local referendum. 'We will consider any action, within the law, to fight against expansion at Heathrow,' he said, urging the government to 'keep your promises'.
Ray Puddifoot, leader of Hillingdon Council, said a third runway would cause 'unacceptable pollution and noise' and destroy hundreds of homes and businesses. Last week, 13 protesters who disrupted flights in protest against a third runway received suspended sentences.
