Travellers to Heathrow may face paying a congestion charge if they do not use public or ‘green’ transport to get there under plans put forward by the airport itself.
Heathrow will tell the Airports Commission later this month that there “may be a case for introducing a congestion charge” for people travelling to the airport. It said a charge would reduce traffic congestion levels and improve air quality for local communities, while raising money for public transport improvements.
The airport has raised the idea as a sop to opponents of its expansion, which the Commission is currently considering. Heathrow is presently failing to meet air quality standards and is under pressure to cut emissions and minimise traffic on surrounding roads.
Head of surface access Simon Earles said during a recent public consultation that concerns were raised about the impact of a new runway on traffic congestion and air pollution.
“Once improvements to public transport to the airport have been delivered, we believe there may be a case for a congestion charge,” he said. “The idea is at an early stage and we will of course consult on these plans at the appropriate time.”
Heathrow said a congestion charge would help to “discourage drop off and pick up” and would apply for those travelling to the airport – not to surrounding roads like the A30, A4 or M4.
There could be exemptions for the greenest vehicles, although this would be subject to future consultation.
Heathrow also said funds could be put aside to contribute towards major rail, underground and road improvements, as well as pay for further sustainable travel initiatives, public transport schemes and community transport improvements.
Tom Newcombe
