The decision on whether a new runway should be built at Heathrow or Gatwick will not be the end of the story, according to campaigners.

Sir Howard Davies is expected to publish the Airports Commission Report on Wednesday and the government will announce its final decision at the end of the year.

John Stewart, chair of anti-noise pressure group HACAN, said: “Wednesday is far from the end of the story.

“Even if Davies recommends a third runway, there is no guarantee the government will go for it as there are so many ‘big beasts’ in the cabinet opposed to it.”

John Stewart
John Stewart

However Heathrow argues it is best placed to deliver the greatest economic benefit for the country: up to £211bn and 180,000 jobs.

The airport’s chief executive, John Holland-Kaye, said: “Expanding Heathrow is not only deliverable, it’s vital.

"It will deliver what the nation needs and what politicians want – an opportunity to win the race for jobs.”

Heathrow chief executive John Holland-Kaye

He said the Airports Commission agreed air quality limits and noise reduction targets could be met.

Stop Heathrow Expansion campaigners will be gathered upstairs at the Five Bells pub in Harmondsworth to speak to the media today.