The Government has published the consultation document on increasing capacity at Heathrow Airport.
The consultation called Adding Capacity at Heathrow Airport is considering whether a third runway should be built which will be served by a sixth terminal.
Transport secretary Ruth kelly has urged local people and interested bodies to respond with their views.
Ms Kelly said: “Heathrow supports 170,000 jobs, billions of pounds of British exports and is our main gateway to the global economy. But for too long it has operated at nearly full capacity, with relatively minor problems causing severe delays to passengers.
“If nothing changes, Heathrow’s status as a world-class airport will be gradually eroded – jobs will be lost and the economy will suffer. London and the UK’s nations and regions alike are reliant on the good international connections that the Heathrow hub provides.
“Equally, I am clear that any decision on expansion has to be compatible with meeting tough local environmental tests on noise and air quality.
“I fully understand this is an issue which raises strong feelings on all sides which is why we are making every effort to encourage people to make their views known.”
>>Read the statement in full
The closing date for responses is February 27, 2008.
Let us know what you think. Email travel.weekly@rbi.co.uk