More details announced on Heathrow expansion

We've been told more details about proposed plans for the expansion of Heathrow

One bid, run by billionaire hotel tycoon Surinder Arora would see a shorter runway which would avoid diverting the M25.

They are working with Singapore's Changi airport, which has been ranked as the world's best according to consultancy Skytrax

Changi has features such as a swimming pool, cinema and butterfly garden and the Arora Group says it wants to "ensure the best passenger experience in the world".

Arora Group and Heathrow's owners both recently submitted plans to the Department for Transport for a third runway at the west London airport.

The former wants to build a 2,800-metre runway, while the latter is seeking permission for a full-length 3,500-metre runway.

Arora Group says the "primary benefit" of its plan, named Heathrow West, is that it would avoid the costly and disruptive need to divert the M25 motorway.

A shorter runway could have limits on its use, although Arora Group insists it would be able to accommodate aircraft of all sizes.

Mr Arora, who is one of the largest landowners at Heathrow, said: "We are proud to deliver a highly credible proposal for a shorter runway and more efficient expansion at Heathrow.

"This reduces the costs, the delivery timescales and significant construction risks building across the M25 alike.

"We welcome all debate on which scheme demonstrates better value for the airlines, passengers and the British economy as a whole and continue to engage with the Government on the merits of our plan."

Arora Group stated the new runway could be fully operational by 2035, while a new terminal would open in two phases, in 2036 and 2040.

The plan, developed with infrastructure company Bechtel, has a cost estimate of under £25 billion, not including the redevelopment of the airport's existing central area.

Heathrow has said its runway and airfield plan would be privately funded at a cost of £21 billion.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander is reviewing the plans so that a review of the Airports National Policy Statement (ANPS) can begin later this year.

The ANPS will provide the basis for decision-making on any development consent order application.

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