Delay to new runway decision - ADEPT response

ADEPT responds to suggestions of a delay in decision for new runway at Heathrow or Gatwick

Simon Neilson, Chairman of ADEPT’s Planning, Housing and Regeneration Board, said:

“We are very concerned about reports of a further delay and the lack of explanation from Government after the clear findings from the Davis Commissions. Further delays are bad news for our businesses, will damage our ability to export in an already fragile market and will cost the economy. Airport capacity in the South East has been an issue for many years and now is the time to make some decisions, not delay further. When big infrastructure projects are postponed, business confidence and private investment decisions are undermined. Similar debates have negatively affected the energy sector for years and the government should learn from that. It is ironic that only a few weeks ago the National Infrastructure Commission was established on the basis it would remove such uncertainty.”

ENDS

For more information, please contact Liz Waugh at Coast Communications on 01579 352600 or 07966 388921 or email liz@coastmarcoms.co.uk

About ADEPT

The Association of Directors of Environment, Economy, Planning & Transport (ADEPT) represents local authority county, unitary and metropolitan Directors. Operating at the strategic tier of local government, members are responsible for delivering public services that primarily relate to the physical environment and the economy, but which have a significant impact on all aspects of the nation’s well-being. ADEPT represents members' interests by proactively engaging central Government on emerging policy & issues, promoting initiatives aimed at influencing Government policy and through the development of best practices and responding to European and UK Government initiatives and consultations.

For more information on ADEPT please visit the website: www.adeptnet.org.uk