The government has finally given the green light for Heathrow to build a third runway but there is still a long way to go before it becomes a reality.
Here are the next steps in the process according to the government’s own timetable:
Early 2017: Government will publish a draft National Policy Statement (NPS) on airports setting out its policy for developing a new Heathrow runway by 2030. There will be a public consultation process running for 16 weeks, including a series of local and regional events.
Spring 2017-summer 2017: Select committees in parliament will have the opportunity to scrutinise the draft NPS.
Summer 2017-autumn 2017: Government will analyse responses from the public consultation and select committees before finalising NPS.
Late 2017-early 2018: Final NPS will be debated in parliament followed by a formal vote. If it is approved, the transport secretary can formally designate the NPS.
2018-2021/22: Once the NPS is designated, Heathrow can start the process of applying for planning permission for the third runway, including consultation with local communities.
2025-late 2020s: Third runway comes into operation if planning permission is secured and construction process runs in line with current timetable.