Now that the government has decided to press ahead with a third runway at Heathrow, those of us who live in West London and the surrounding areas should prepare for the detrimental impact this will have on our quality of life.
We already suffer from unacceptable levels of air pollution, and this problem will only get worse as the number of flights increases.
Furthermore, the estimated 240,000 extra flights a year will lead to even more noise pollution from overhead aircraft - a matter many people who live in Harrow have complained to me about and say that they are disturbed, as am I, as early as 4.30am by aircraft noise, one flight after another.
This Government's refusal to listen to the concerns of local people on this issue highlights both its arrogance and the leanness of its green credentials. In comparison, the Conservative proposal to scrap the runway in favour of investment in high-speed rail links is both forward thinking and environmentally responsible. I welcome Boris Johnson's pledge to challenge this decision in court, and sincerely hope that the government will use any intervening pauses to properly consider the alternatives to this costly, unpopular and environmentally unfriendly venture.
COUNCILLOR MARILYN ASHTON
Portfolio holder for planning, development and enterprise Civic Centre
