New infrastructure report welcomed but Heathrow expansion is a mistake, say campaigners
13 October 2017
Campaigners respond to the publication of the new UK Infrastructure report by the National Infrastructure Commission (NIC).
Campaign for Better Transport welcomed the commission’s interim report and urged the Government to take notice and produce the funding in next month’s budget for local and everyday transport, in cities and elsewhere, to tackle congestion and carbon.
However, it criticised the Commission for ducking the climate change challenge posed by increasing aviation and airports.
Stephen Joseph, Chief Executive, Campaign for Better Transport said:
“The NIC’s report focuses on the right priorities, and we particularly welcome the focus on solving urban congestion and pollution by investing in public transport and cycling.
“We need to see this reflected in next month’s budget, which is an opportunity to increase funding for everyday transport, outside as well as within cities, rather than big new roads.
“However, by calling for expansion to Heathrow Airport and maybe elsewhere, the Commission is letting aviation off the hook from the need to cut carbon emissions. Unlimited airport expansion is simply incompatible with meeting our targets to cut carbon emissions, and the Commission should say so.”
ENDS
For further information please contact Richard Watkins, Press Officer, at Campaign for Better Transport on 020 7566 6494 / 07984 773468 richard.watkins@bettertransport.org.uk
Notes to editors
- Read more on the National Infrastructure Commission here – Adonis: tackle the three Cs and deliver world-class infrastructure
- TfL estimates the overall bill for road and rail improvements which would be needed to cope with the opening of a third runway at Heathrow would top £18.2 billion. Heathrow CEO John Holland-Kaye told the Environmental Audit Select Committee that Heathrow would only be prepared to pay £1.1 billion towards improved road and rail access. That would leave a £17 billion funding gap.
- Campaign for Better Transport is the UK’s leading authority on sustainable transport. We champion transport solutions that improve people’s lives and reduce environmental damage. Our campaigns push innovative, practical policies at local and national levels. Campaign for Better Transport Charitable Trust is a registered charity (1101929)
