Heathrow expansion rail links at risk without funding clarity, Transport Committee told
TfL and business groups warn delays to Western Rail Link could cause severe congestion and economic harm
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The government’s framework for Heathrow’s expansion is under scrutiny after Transport for London and business groups warned that critical rail links could be delayed or abandoned. The Transport Committee published written evidence on 20 August 2026, revealing concerns that the Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement (HENPS) does not guarantee funding or delivery for projects like the Western Rail Link to Heathrow.
Heathrow Airport Ltd submitted its £49bn expansion plan in August 2025, proposing a new 3,500m runway, a sixth terminal, and upgrades to existing facilities. The plan aims to increase passenger capacity to 150 million annually and support 756,000 flights. However, the airport said some rail schemes depend on third-party funding, which the HENPS does not secure.
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Rail links called essential, not optional
Transport for London (TfL) and the Greater London Authority (GLA) told the committee that new rail links should be treated as essential infrastructure. TfL said the HENPS contains inconsistencies, failing to clarify whether projects like the Western Rail Link are necessities or merely options. The 6.5km link, connecting the Great Western Main Line to Heathrow Terminal 5, would allow direct access from the South West, South Wales, and the Thames Valley without requiring passengers to change at London Paddington.
TfL warned that without clear commitments, there is a risk of severe congestion, economic disruption, and environmental harm. The authority said meeting the HENPS’s public transport mode-share targets would require major upgrades to the Piccadilly Line and higher-frequency Elizabeth Line services. It added that the policy statement relies too heavily on wider decarbonisation efforts to offset aviation emissions, rather than setting enforceable requirements.
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Fire crews attended a blaze near the airport on 12 September, shutting eastbound lanes for two hours
Clarification is needed on whether some of the measures, such as new southern and western rail links, are necessities, recommendations or merely options for consideration.
Transport for London, written evidence to the Transport Committee
Barnet residents face noise and air quality risks
The expansion’s surface access plans have direct implications for Barnet and west London. TfL and the Mayor of London called for stronger controls on noise, particulate matter, and emissions from road and air traffic. The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport and the Rail Freight Group also urged the government to incorporate high-speed rail freight infrastructure into the airport, reducing road freight and supporting sustainable aviation fuel logistics.
Heathrow’s expansion includes the closure of Terminal 3 and the construction of a new terminal, T5X. The airport plans to invest £21bn in the new runway and airfield, £12bn in terminal expansion, and £15bn in modernising existing facilities. The government has backed the plan, but the Transport Committee’s scrutiny process means no final decision is expected before late 2026.
What happens next
The Transport Committee will continue its inquiry into the HENPS, with further evidence sessions scheduled. The government must respond to the committee’s findings before the policy statement can be finalised. Residents and businesses can submit evidence to the committee until 30 September 2026 via the UK Parliament website. Heathrow Airport Ltd said it remains committed to working with the government and transport bodies to secure funding for rail links.
Questions this report answers
+What is the Western Rail Link to Heathrow?
The Western Rail Link is a proposed 6.5km rail project connecting the Great Western Main Line to Heathrow Terminal 5. It would allow direct access from the South West, South Wales, and the Thames Valley without passengers needing to change at London Paddington. Funding and delivery remain unclear.
+How much will Heathrow’s expansion cost?
Heathrow Airport Ltd’s expansion plan is estimated at £49bn. This includes £21bn for a new runway and airfield, £12bn for terminal expansion, and £15bn for modernising existing facilities. The plan aims to increase passenger capacity to 150 million annually.
+When will the government decide on Heathrow’s expansion?
The Transport Committee is scrutinising the Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement, with no final decision expected before late 2026. The government must respond to the committee’s findings before the policy can be approved.
+How could Barnet residents be affected?
Barnet and west London residents could face increased noise, air pollution, and congestion if rail and surface access upgrades are delayed. TfL and the GLA have called for stronger controls on emissions and particulate matter from road and air traffic.
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