A new survey of Hounslow residents should make councillors and local MPs sit up and listen. The survey figures show a further significant shift in local opinion in favour of Heathrow’s new runway.
The survey report will be ratified by Hounslow council next week. It shows that 59% of residents overall now support the third runway – up from 44% in 2016, with only 22% opposing it.
Local communities around Heathrow are clearer than ever before that the new runway has their overwhelming support.
Back Heathrow Executive Director Parmjit Dhanda said: “It is welcome news and shows the tide has turned in favour of airport expansion. This sends a very clear message to the council to get fully behind the wishes of residents and help make expansion happen so Hounslow can reap the benefits the new runway will bring, with thousands of new jobs, apprenticeships for its young people and much needed investment in the local economy.”
The report says: “Support of the proposal to build a third runway at Heathrow Airport has increased significantly since 2016 with close to three fifths of residents supporting it.”
Across the borough from Bedfont, Feltham and Hanworth, to Isleworth and Brentford support is over 50%. In Bedfont, Feltham and Hanworth, support is highest and opposition is lowest at 67% and 12% respectively. In Chiswick, support outstrips opposition by 47% to 28% respectively.
Mr Dhanda added: “The figures are very stark. This report shows roughly three fifths of Hounslow residents are now in favour, and only one fifth against expansion.”