Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement (HENPS)
Richmond Council formally objected to the Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement in August 2026, raising environmental and economic concerns.
Richmond Council formally objected to the Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement (HENPS) in August 2026, with its Special Standing Committee on Heathrow approving the detailed response. The council's submission, due by September 1, 2026, cited significant concerns over environmental impacts, including noise, air quality, and climate change, arguing local communities should not bear increased harm.
The council also questioned the economic case for expansion and the adequacy of proposed mitigations, stating the government has not adequately justified the need for growth. Richmond Council's longstanding opposition to Heathrow expansion remains firm, and it argued the consultation document itself was difficult for residents to understand. The HENPS sets the planning policy framework for any future development consent application.
Key facts
- Richmond Council formally objected to the Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement in August 2026. Source 1 Source 2 Source 3
- The council's Special Standing Committee on Heathrow approved its response on August 12, 2026. Source 1 Source 2 Source 3
- Richmond Council's response to the consultation was due by September 1, 2026. Source
- The council cited concerns over surface access, noise, air quality, and climate change. Source 1 Source 2
- Richmond Council questioned the economic case for expansion. Source 1 Source 2
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.