Andy Burnham has said he will not lend his support to plans for a third runway at Heathrow until the results of a formal consultation are available. The mayor said he would wait to see the consultation findings before taking a position on the scheme, which is estimated to cost around £33bn.
The proposal to add a third runway at the London airport has been a focal point in debates over infrastructure, environment and regional transport for years. Backers argue that expansion could increase capacity and support economic growth, while critics have raised concerns about noise, air quality and wider environmental impacts.
Burnham's decision to hold off on endorsing the plan places him among regional leaders who are approaching the proposal cautiously. By awaiting the consultation results, he signalled a preference for evidence and wider public input before committing to a stance on an issue with significant local and national ramifications.
The response is likely to shape how leaders and communities engage with the next stages of the planning process. With the project's multibillion-pound price tag and potential impacts on London and surrounding areas, the consultation outcome is expected to be closely watched by politicians, business groups and environmental organisations alike.