Source · Select Committees · Environmental Audit Committee
Recommendation 15
15
Accepted
Airports National Policy Statement unfit for purpose, lacking integrated environmental limits
Recommendation
The Airports National Policy Statement (ANPS) is not fit for purpose and requires updating to reflect Government policy. The ANPS specifically fails to: • Provide an integrated view on the role of the aviation and airport system across the country as a whole, • Provide information on environmental limits including air pollution limits, noise limits and greenhouse gas emissions, • Set out how cumulative impacts from all current UK airports and future airport expansion should be accounted for in the planning process. This leads to environmental risks and leaves future expansion applications open to legal challenges, slowing progress of any airport expansion. (Conclusion, Paragraph 68)
Government Response Summary
The government confirmed that a review of the ANPS commenced in October and will consider legislative changes, environmental tests (including cumulative impacts), and update associated assessments, with DfT expecting to consult on a revised ANPS by July 2026 if amendments are needed.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
The review of the ANPS, which commenced in October, will take into consideration changes to legislation, policy and data, and the scheme decision announced in November. It will also ensure that any proposed scheme meets the Government’s four tests for Heathrow expansion on economic growth, air quality, noise commitments and climate change. In addition, as part of the ANPS review, the existing Appraisal of Sustainability, Habitats Regulation Assessment, Equality Impact Assessment and Health Impact Analysis will be reviewed and updated in line with any proposed amendments made to the ANPS. The ANPS review and associated assessments will consider the latest available information on airspace modernisation and cumulative environmental impacts. It will be informed by updated aviation demand and carbon forecasts which will take into account potential airport capacities at Heathrow and other airports. If amendments are needed as a result of the review, DfT expects to consult on a revised ANPS, as well as the supporting assessments, by July 2026. This will provide an important opportunity for stakeholders and communities to have their say. An amended ANPS would also be laid before Parliament and be subject to scrutiny by the appropriate Select Committee. Any DCO application for a third runway at Heathrow Airport would be carefully considered in line with the relevant planning processes and would need to comply with the requirements set out in any revised ANPS, as well as other relevant planning legislation.