Mayor 'to back runway legal bid'

Operator BAA says Heathrow airport is "jam-packed"

London Mayor Boris Johnson has pledged to support any legal challenge to the government's approval of a third runway at Heathrow Airport.

The government gave the go-ahead in the face of strong opposition, promising to meet air quality and noise targets.

But Mr Johnson said he was concerned proper processes had not been followed.

Hounslow Council in west London said it would start legal action on behalf of the 96% of its residents who opposed the new runway.

The mayor had suggested an airport be built in the Thames Estuary as an alternative to Heathrow expansion.

Mr Johnson said: "'This is a truly devastating blow for millions of Londoners.

"I am deeply concerned that the proper processes of coming to this decision may not have been followed, and will support a legal challenge should this prove to be the case."

It's the most appalling thing that has happened in the history of the borough Ray Puddifoot, Borough of Hillingdon Runway will demolish village

Hounslow Council said 96% of its residents oppose the plan.

Councillor Barbara Reid said: "They have left us with no option but to consider taking legal action on behalf of our residents.

"We will do everything in our power to ensure that the government's plans for Heathrow never get off the ground."

Heathrow is in the borough of Hillingdon and its leader Ray Puddifoot, said: "It's the most appalling thing that has happened in the history of the borough."

Wandsworth Council leader Edward Lister, speaking on behalf of the 2M Group of local councils opposed to expansion, said: "Promises that environmental impacts will be regulated will be taken with a pinch of a salt by many people around the airport."

'Massive mistake'

London Councils, an umbrella group representing the city's 33 councils, called the consultation on the plans "flawed" and said the decision was "extremely arrogant".

Darren Johnson, chair of the London Assembly's Environment Committee, called the approval a "massive mistake" while the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT ) Union said it was a "major setback".

But Baroness Jo Valentine, chief executive of London First, a group that promotes business in London, welcomed the announcement.

"The continued support of London business will rest on changes to the way in which Heathrow is regulated and run."

Transport Secretary Geoff Hoon has said that Heathrow's expansion was the "right move for the country".