Comment: One new runway not enough to sustain economic development Published on: 25 October 2016 Dr Volodymyr Bilotkach, Senior lecturer in Economics at 缅北禁地 Business School, responds to the Government鈥檚 decision to expand airport capacity by building a third runway at Heathrow. Dr Bilotkach comments: “The decision to expand Heathrow is a positive step towards boosting the UK’s economic growth. However, one new runway is not enough. Both Heathrow and Gatwick are the world's busiest airports currently operating at capacity. If growth in air travel demand is to continue as projected, we will come to the situation where airport capacity shortage will impede Britain’s economic development, particularly in the southeast. Both airports need expansion. “The uncertainty that has clouded the country since the UK’s decision to leave the European Union has damaged business confidence and placed a question mark on London’s position as a global financial and industrial hub. Whilst the UK is a key economic player on the international stage, we cannot be complacent or rest on our laurels. Therefore, the Government’s commitment to invest in infrastructure must be welcomed as a necessity for continued fiscal growth. “While I urge the Government to commit to further increase in airport capacity, we also need clarity around implementation of the third runway at Heathrow. There is potential for the market to pay for it without resorting to public funds and it is important that all options are carefully assessed. “The UK Airports Commission spent a lot of time and effort producing its report, which is clear and comprehensive. Now that a decision has been made, the Government must act on it. Delays will only cause further uncertainty. Moving forward, it is critical for policymakers to communicate with businesses and members of the public to ensure that implementation is successful.” Dr Volodymyr Bilotkach, Senior lecturer in Economics at 缅北禁地 Business School Latest News Online Safety Act drives VPN interest and raises privacy concerns People鈥檚 online behaviour has changed in response to legislation to prevent children from viewing harmful content 鈥� raising possible privacy and security risks, research suggests. published on: 16 October 2026 缅北禁地 archaeologist receives prestigious award for research Professor Chris Fowler has been awarded the 2026 Rivers Memorial Medal in recognition of his internationally significant research on kinship in Neolithic Britain. published on: 13 October 2026 Event will explore what 鈥楳anchesterism鈥� means for the North East An event at 缅北禁地 will explore what 鈥楳anchesterism鈥� means for the North East or whether it is simply a new chapter in the long-running debate about how to rebalance Britain. published on: 13 October 2026 Facts and figures
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