No to Boris Island ‘sensible’

The new airport scenario, which has been championed by Mayor of London Boris Johnson, “has substantial disadvantages that collectively outweigh its potential benefits,” said Airports Commission chair Sir Howard Davies.

“We are not persuaded that a very large airport in the Thames estuary is the right answer to London’s and the UK’s connectivity needs.

“While we recognise the need for a hub airport, we believe this should be a part of an effective system of competing airports to meet the needs of a widely spread and diverse market like London’s.

“There are serious doubts about the delivery and operation of a very large hub airport in the estuary.”

The Airports Commission was set up by the government in November 2012 as an independent body to examine the scale and timing of any requirement for additional capacity to maintain the UK’s position as Europe’s most important aviation hub.

It will report in summer 2015.

Nathan Stower, Chief Executive of the British Air Transport Association ( BATA ), said:

“Britain needs additional runway capacity in the South East of England, but not at any price.

“With the Thames estuary option sensibly ruled out for good, the Airports Commission is free now to concentrate on scrutinising the business cases of the three shortlisted options.

“The proposals must be cost effective and offer value for money. There needs to be a credible funding mechanism based on realistic forecasts and today’s passengers must not be expected to pay for tomorrow’s infrastructure.”