Heathrow Airport expansion 'could benefit Shropshire's businesses'

Richard Sheehan, chief executive of the Shropshire Chamber of Commerce, believes it could improve connectivity with the rest of the world, supporting exports, trade and job opportunities.

It comes after ministers described their backing for a new runway at the airport as a "historic moment" for the UK.

The Cabinet signed off the plans after they were approved by the government's economic sub-committee, which is chaired by Prime Minister Theresa May.

Mr Sheehan said: "I think in principle it is a very good thing and really important for the infrastructure in the UK.

"It will enable the country to reach out around the world. Especially with Brexit coming up, it makes reaching out to countries outside of Europe really critical.

"Businesses are exploring ways of how they can do business beyond Europe with new customers and opportunities.

"The expansion of the country's premier airport will be vital for the connectivity of goods and people.

Connectivity

"It is important that other airports such as Birmingham and Manchester feed into the hub. The connectivity between them needs to be as good as possible to simplify the process of people and goods moving around.

"Exporting is a big business and it is going to get bigger.

"My only real concern with the expansion is the length of time it takes for these things to actually happen."

Transport Secretary Chris Grayling announced £2.6 billion in compensation for residents and noise abatement measures.

Environmental groups oppose the plan, which Mr Grayling says will only happen if air quality commitments are met.

"The time for action is now," Mr Grayling told MPs, who will be asked to vote on the expansion plan by July 11.

He insisted the decision was being taken in the national interest and would benefit the whole of the UK – with 15 per cent of new landing slots at the airport "facilitating" regional connectivity.