Heathrow
Local councils are currently scrutinising the government's draft Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement, with Hillingdon and Richmond upon Thames formally objecting.
Local councils are currently scrutinising the government's draft Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement (HENPS). Hillingdon Council reaffirmed its opposition to a third runway in September 2026, urging the government to amend the HENPS due to concerns over local communities, public health, and the environment. Richmond Council formally objected to the HENPS in August 2026, citing significant concerns over surface access, noise, air quality, and climate change.
Richmond Council's Special Standing Committee on Heathrow approved its detailed response to the HENPS on 12 August 2026. Separately, Hillingdon Council is reviewing the presence and impact of gambling machines at Heathrow Airport, following a request made during a Licensing Committee meeting in October 2025. Hillingdon Council had previously voted unanimously to reaffirm its opposition to a third runway in September 2025.
Key facts
- Hillingdon Council reaffirmed its opposition to a third runway at Heathrow Airport in September 2026. Source
- Richmond Council formally objected to the government's Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement in August 2026. Source
- Richmond Council's Special Standing Committee on Heathrow approved its response to the HENPS on 12 August 2026. Source
- Hillingdon Council is reviewing gambling machines at Heathrow Airport, following a request made in October 2025. Source
- Hillingdon Council unanimously agreed to oppose a third runway at Heathrow Airport in September 2025. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on, with background from Wikipedia. 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.