With just over a week to go until the consultation process ends, London mayor Ken Livingstone is keeping up the pressure on the government to abandon plans to build a third runway at Heathrow airport. During a visit to Sipson, one of three villages threatened by the bulldozers if the plans go ahead, Ken said: "It is vital that all airport expansion in London and the South East, including Heathrow, is halted now as it is completely contrary to the growing evidence on the role of aviation in contributing towards catastrophic climate change.
"Rather than more runways and plane journeys, we must cut carbon emissions by using energy more efficiently. The government's own figures show air travel produces two to three times more carbon emissions than making the same trip by rail.
"Expansion would also have a huge impact on road congestion and pollution with more plane journeys leading to more traffic congestion and pollution from cars. Furthermore many communities in London will suffer with more noise and air pollution, affecting the health, well-being and quality of life for millions of Londoners.
"The expansion of Heathrow will take much needed green space and mean the complete destruction of Sipson village, home to over 1,000 people.
"So on every test; environment, economic and quality of life, the argument for expanding Heathrow has not been made and I don't believe it ever can. We have a duty to protect our environment not just for us, but the generations who will come after us."
Well said, Mr L. And I hope you've already got the 25th February booked in your diary - that's when the largest public rally opposing the third runway will be happening at Westminster Central Hall. Check out the details below and get there if you can, because this thing is boiling up nicely in our favour, with a new poll of 1,500 people living in and around London showing that 90 per cent are opposed to any expansion of Heathrow.
It's time to show the government and their cronies that we want action on climate change, not just rhetoric. The fight to block a third runway at Heathrow has become one of the biggest environmental battles in Europe, and if Londoners unite together it's one we can win.
Take action
Have your say on the consultation process: events list
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Heathrow Mass Rally at Central Hall, Westminster - Monday 25th February at 7pm
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The coalition of partners opposed to the proposals to expand Heathrow will be holding a large public rally, on 25th February - two days before the end of the consultation. This is one not to miss. It will be a great chance to show the breadth of opposition to the expansion proposals.
Be part of the thousands
of voices saying 'No’'!
A wide range of speakers plus live music and campaign videos. Speakers already confirmed include: Mark Lynas, climate change specialist and author of three books on the subject Peter Ainsworth MP, Shadow Secretary of State for the Environment Caroline Lucas MEP, Principal Speaker for the Green Party John McDonnell MP, Labour MP for Hayes and Harlington Brian Paddick, Liberal Democrat candidate for London Mayor Councillor Barbara Reid, Hounslow Council cabinet member, representing the 2M group of local authorities Leo Murray, Plane Stupid Geraldine Nicholson, Chair No Third Runway Action Group John Stewart, Chair HACAN |
