The recent announcement from the Government for it's backing of a third runaway at Heathrow Airport, has to be good news for the industry as a whole. It is great news that a decision is finally made, as indecision of whether it was Gatwick or Heathrow could only hinder the economy.
Again the "S" word will raise his head - skills shortages, and how we try to deliver this project. Training and apprenticeships need to be a key focus of the Government now, to prevent programme delays and cost escalation.
The selection of Heathrow should not, however, draw the airport expansion debate to a close. Given the projected population growth, not only in the south east but across the UK, spreading capacity between more than one location will allow the UK to meet future demands. With infrastructure being a clear priority, reflected by recent decisions, the Government should now seriously consider the option of creating additional capacity in other regions of the UK.
http://www.rics.org/uk/news/news-insight/comment/heathrows-off-the-ground-debate-continues/
