The paper sets out the needs case for expanded airport capacity and considers whether Heathrow’s third runway will meet that need, while driving economic growth and regional development. It also evaluates what impact an additional runway will have on the environment and local communities.
The paper also considers public expectations and if criticisms of the project have merit and can be overcome.
The paper concludes with an assessment of three alternative approaches, informed by ICE fellows and experts in the field.
Civil engineering insights into Heathrow’s third runway and alternative proposals
Content type: Policy
You may also be interested in@headerSize>

- Type
- Webinar
Careers talks
Aimed at students, this series of seven webinars which runs until May 2027 will enable you to learn about professional life from recent graduates from across the industry.

- Type
- Lecture
Complex SCL tunnelling around London Underground assets
This lecture explores lessons learned from delivering complex tunnelling works on major London infrastructure projects. Plus, the BTSYM will discuss 2026's activities and look forward to 2027.

- Type
- Lecture
The 2026 Geotechnical Engineering Proceedings Lecture: Strains in sprayed concrete tunnel linings at Heathrow Terminal 4 and back-calculation of stress
Join this year's Geotechnical Engineering Lecture to explore the long-term stress, strain and groundwater effects shaping the performance of sprayed concrete tunnel linings at Heathrow Terminal 4 station.