UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves has confirmed the government’s support for the construction of a controversial third runway at London Heathrow.

“Heathrow is at the heart of the UK’s openness as a country… a third runway at Heathrow would unlock further growth, boost investment, increase exports, and make the UK more open and more connected,” said Reeves.

According to standard.co.uk, the third runway was approved by parliament in June 2018, but a Development Consent Order must still be applied for to go ahead with the project.

However, the proposal continues to face strong opposition. London’s Mayor, Sadiq Khan, and environmental groups are opposing the construction due to the impact it would have on the local area. According to Khan, the proposed runway would require the demolition of residential housing, and it would lead to increased noise and air pollution, hindering the UK’s climate change targets.

“I will scrutinise carefully any new proposals that now come forward from Heathrow, including the impact it will have on people living in the area and the huge knock-on effects for our transport infrastructure,” said Khan.

According to Reeves, Heathrow is confident that its proposal for expansion will meet strict rules on noise, air quality and carbon emissions. Furthermore, she said the government would also be accepting construction proposals.

Virgin Atlantic also responded: “Heathrow is critical national infrastructure yet it remains the world’s most expensive airport with a service that falls short. We are supportive if there is fundamental reform to the flawed regulatory model to ensure value for money for consumers.”