Prime Minister urged to scrap third runway

14 Aug 2026

The Liberal Democrats are calling for Labour's newest PM Andy Burnham, who was once critical of the Heathrow expansion, to cancel Labour's plans for the third runway.

The former Chancellor Rachel Reeves backed the £49 billion Heathrow third runway expansion earlier this year. Burnham has previously opposed the Heathrow expansion. Now he has the opportunity to live up to his words.

This expansion puts the health of 3 million residents in jeopardy, with increased rates of strokes, cardiovascular disease and worsening mental health all linked to ongoing aircraft noise. Moreover, the expansion will force over 700 residents from their homes, and destroy 1,300 acres of green space.

If Burnham believed in that then, he should stand by it now.

Stop Heathrow's Third Runway Expansion Plans

The Labour Government has given the green light to Tory expansion plans for Heathrow Airport. The Lib Dems are the only main party to consistently oppose a third runway because of the noise and pollution impact on residents and the damage it will do to our climate. We want a better Heathrow, not a bigger one.

We call on the Government to reconsider and oppose the expansion of Heathrow - please sign our petition.

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