In a major decision for UK infrastructure, ministers have thrown their weight behind Heathrow Airport's ambitious £33 billion expansion plan, a project that will see a section of the M25 motorway relocated to accommodate a new third runway.
Government Backs Heathrow's Vision
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander formally rejected a rival proposal from the Arora Group, led by hotel tycoon Surinder Arora, declaring that Heathrow's own blueprint was "the most credible and deliverable option". The announcement, made in a written statement to Parliament on Tuesday 25th November 2025, signals a significant step forward for the long-debated expansion.
The approved Heathrow plan involves constructing a substantial 3,500-metre runway. To make this possible, a complex engineering feat will be undertaken: building a new tunnel and bridges for the M25, shifting the motorway approximately 130 metres west of its current position at a cost of £1.5 billion.
Why the Arora Alternative Was Rejected
The competing Arora plan proposed a shorter, 2,800-metre runway that its backers claimed would not require diverting the M25. However, Ms Alexander stated that this alternative would still have had "a considerable impact" on the vital motorway and would necessitate the compulsory purchase of more homes in the vicinity of the airport.
A spokesperson for Heathrow welcomed the government's endorsement, stating that the expansion "will mean more connectivity, increased trade, improved passenger experience and a huge economic boost for the British businesses that will help design and build it". Upon completion, the airport's capacity is projected to soar to 756,000 flights and 150 million passengers per year.
The Road to a 2035 Opening
The government is aiming to make a final decision on the planning application before the next general election, with the goal of having the third runway operational by 2035. Ms Alexander emphasised the urgency, saying the decision would "allow a decision on a third runway plan this Parliament which meets our key tests including on the environment and economic growth".
She added: "We’re acting swiftly and decisively to get this project off the ground so we can realise its transformational potential for passengers, businesses and our economy sooner."
While the Arora Group "accepts today’s announcement," Mr Arora expressed hope that his firm could still be chosen as the "promoter" of the project, arguing that competition is "absolutely imperative to keep costs under control at the airport".
Heathrow, however, has called for "further clarity" from the government and the Civil Aviation Authority on the regulatory framework for the next phase, requesting "definitive decisions" by mid-December. The entire project is expected to be fully privately financed.
The proposals will now undergo further consultation as the government updates the Airports National Policy Statement. In a move addressing environmental concerns, the Transport Secretary has also pledged to consult the independent Climate Change Committee to ensure the expansion aligns with the UK's legal commitments to reduce carbon emissions.
