The Tory-Lib Dem coalition government is now open to improving airport infrastructure around London.
Previously, airport expansion in the South East had been vetoed by the current ruling parties.
However, in chancellor George Osborne’s Autumn Statement today (November 29), he said the government will "explore all options for maintaining the UK's aviation hub status".
Expansion at Heathrow, however, remains out of the picture, said Osborne .
The chancellor’s new receptivity to discussions on aviation capacity may open up the possibility of building an airport in the Thames Estuary, a fact welcomed by Lord Norman Foster.
He has been involved in proposals for an airport in the Thames Estuary with his architecture firm Foster and Partners, alongside Halcrow and Volterra.
“We believe that the economic case for the Thames Hub is compelling as Britain is already losing out to expanding European hubs,” he said.
“Our proposal comprehensively addresses the infrastructure needed to maximise the advantages of a new airport.”
Under the plans, Foster’s Thames Hub airport would form part of a wider infrastructure project, which also include a high speed rail line covering the length of Britain and a new Thames Barrier.
“We are committed to working with government and wider industry stakeholders to put in place the transport connections Britain needs to encourage growth, job creation and trade with the rest of the world, particularly the emerging economies,” said Foster.
“This is an opportunity to reassert Britain’s role as a global hub and an international gateway. The Chancellor’s Autumn Statement today is very encouraging and a step closer to achieving this goal.”
David Kerr, Halcrow’s director, said support is growing for building an airport in the Thames Estuary.
He said: “Over the last few weeks we have met a large number of public and private sector stakeholders, across a range of infrastructure sectors, and have received widespread support and enthusiasm for the Thames Hub proposals.
“Initial discussions with investors have shown that there is interest in supporting the project through its planning, design, construction, and operation and maintenance phases. With an appropriate political and planning framework, this is a project that can be delivered.”