Ministers announced their support this morning for a new runway at the west London airport - the first full length runway in the south-east since the second world war.

However the government added in a statement that the location for the preferred location of the runway would be consulted on in the new year.

Transport Secretary Chris Grayling added: “The step that government is taking today is truly momentous. I am proud that after years of discussion and delay this government is taking decisive action to secure the UK’s place in the global aviation market – securing jobs and business opportunities for the next decade and beyond.

“A new runway at Heathrow will improve connectivity in the UK itself and crucially boost our connections with the rest of the world, supporting exports, trade and job opportunities.
This isn’t just a great deal for business, it’s a great deal for passengers who will also benefit from access to more airlines, destinations and flights.

“This is an important issue for the whole country. That is why the government’s preferred scheme will be subject to full and fair public consultation. Of course it is also hugely important for those living near the airport. That is why we have made clear that expansion will only be allowed to proceed on the basis of a world class package of compensation and mitigation worth up to £2.6 billion, including community support, insulation, and respite from noise – balancing the benefits and the impacts of expansion.”

The government added that expansion costs would be paid for by the private sector, and “not by the taxpayer”.

“It will be for the Civil Aviation Authority, as the independent industry regulator, to work with Heathrow Airport Ltd and airlines operating at the airport, on the detailed design and costs to ensure the scheme remains affordable.

"The government expects the industry to work together to drive down costs to benefit passengers. The aim should be to deliver a plan for expansion that keeps landing charges close to current levels.”

In a nod to the UK’s regional airports, the government insisted that expansion at Heathrow would also “support new connections to the UK’s regions as well as safeguarding existing domestic routes”.

Heathrow has proposed a further six new routes to Belfast International, Liverpool, Newquay, Humberside, Prestwick and Durham Tees Valley to be added after expansion.

“This would provide 14 domestic routes in total, and spread benefits right across the country," it added.