Wandsworth residents urged to have their say as Heathrow expansion consultation opens

Fahad Redha

July 23, 2026
2 min read

Wandsworth residents urged to have their say as Heathrow expansion consultation opens

Wandsworth residents are being encouraged to take part in a government consultation that could shape the future of Heathrow Airport’s proposed expansion and determine how any future planning application is assessed.

The consultation centres on the draft Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement, which would set the planning framework the Government would use when considering an application for a third runway and related airport development. Responses must be submitted by 1 September 2026.

If approved, Heathrow’s preferred expansion proposal would add a third runway alongside new terminal infrastructure, increasing annual aircraft movements by around 260,000 flights. That represents an increase of more than 50 per cent compared with current flight numbers.

While future flight paths have not yet been confirmed, Wandsworth Council says the borough is likely to experience a significant increase in aircraft overhead if expansion goes ahead. The council also warns that many residents could lose some of the existing respite periods when flights are temporarily redirected away from certain areas.

The Government says the draft policy has been developed around several key tests, including economic growth, climate change, air quality and aircraft noise.

Wandsworth Council is preparing its own response to the consultation while encouraging residents, community groups and local businesses to submit their own views directly to the Government before the deadline.

To make the consultation more accessible, printed copies of the draft documents are available at Putney Library, Balham Library and Wandsworth Town Hall.

The consultation represents one of the biggest opportunities for communities across south-west London to comment on proposals that could affect local neighbourhoods for decades if Heathrow expansion proceeds.

Wandsworth residents wishing to participate have until 1 September 2026 to review the proposals and submit feedback through the Government’s consultation process.

What impact do you think Heathrow expansion would have on your area? Share your thoughts in the comments. Read more London transport and infrastructure news at EyeOnLondon.

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About Author

Fahad Redha

Fahad is the Content Editor at EyeOnLondon, overseeing the publication’s editorial output across news, culture, and lifestyle. With a background in journalism from the University of the Creative Arts, he brings a broad range of experience from local London reporting in Kensington & Chelsea, where he held roles including motoring, events, and health editor. At EyeOnLondon, Fahad plays a central role in shaping content and maintaining editorial standards. His work spans everything from daily news to feature coverage, with a particular strength in motoring and events. He also incorporates photography into his reporting, adding a visual layer to many of his stories. Fahad joined EyeOnLondon in February 2021.