Heathrow third runway 'would boost economy by £21bn'

23/02/2010

By Jeremy Price.

A third runway at London Heathrow Airport would boost the UK economy by billions of pounds, it has been claimed.

The British Chamber of Commerce (BCC) has named the transport project as one of 13 that could bolster the economy during the recession, estimating it would bring some £21.7 billion to the UK.

It stated that investment in transport must not halt due to decreasing public finances as it supports businesses and employment.

BCC director general David Frost said: "Transport infrastructure cuts must not become a politically convenient way to slash spending after an election, especially when there are huge savings to be made in far larger budgets, including health, education and welfare."

According to the organisation, a public investment of almost £30 billion in 13 transport projects over a five-year period could boost the economy by £85 billion.

London's Crossrail project also received backing from the BCC.
Heathrow is the UK's only hub airport.