19 godzin temu
Hotel tycoon Surinder Arora has unveiled a rival expansion plan for Heathrow Airport that challenges the proposal from the airport's current owners. The billionaire's Arora Group submitted the alternative scheme to the Government, promising a more cost-effective approach to building Britain's third runway.
The "primary benefit" of Arora's plan centres on constructing a shorter 2,800-metre runway instead of the full-length 3,500-metre runway proposed by Heathrow's operators. This approach would avoid the expensive and disruptive need to divert the M25 motorway, according to the company.
Reduced costs and risks
Building the shorter runway would result in "reduced risk" and prevent "spiralling cost", the Arora Group said. Despite its shorter length, the company insisted the runway would still accommodate aircraft of all sizes, though it could face some operational limitations.
The Heathrow West proposal, developed alongside infrastructure company Bechtel, estimates costs at under £25 billion. This figure excludes the redevelopment of the airport's existing central area but represents a significant saving compared to other expansion estimates.
Timeline for completion
Under Arora's plan, the new runway could become fully operational by 2035. A new terminal would then open in two phases, with the first section ready in 2036 and completion by 2040.
Arora, one of Heathrow's largest landowners, said his group had spent a decade working with "world-leading design and delivery" teams. He praised the Government for taking a "common-sense approach" by inviting proposals from all interested parties rather than granting exclusivity to the current airport operator.
Track record claims
The hotel magnate emphasised his company's "proven track record of delivering on-time and on-budget projects" including developments around Heathrow Airport. He has repeatedly accused the current airport operators of wasting money on previous projects.
Recent ownership changes at Heathrow have seen French company Ardian become the largest shareholder with a 23% stake in December 2024. Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund also purchased a 15% share during the same period.
Government backing
Chancellor Rachel Reeves gave her backing for a third runway during a speech on economic growth in January. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander will now review the Airports National Policy Statement, which provides the framework for decision-making on any Development Consent Order application.
Heathrow will submit its own expansion plan to the Government on Thursday. The airport is understood to be open to discussing a shorter runway with airlines if it can deliver the same operational benefits.
The airport declined to comment on the Arora Group's proposal when approached for a response.
(PA) Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
