Heathrow unveils expansion plans

Heathrow Airport unveiled its plans to construct a third runway by 2026 and complete its expansion by 2050 on Tuesday.

The plan for the expansion includes diverting rivers, moving roads and rerouting the M25 through a tunnel under the new runway.

The proposal faced opposition from the surrounding boroughs but the airport says it has engaged with local communities and other stakeholders.

Local and environmental groups said the plans would bring unacceptable levels of noise and pollution, as well as adding to the UK's carbon emissions (which the government is trying to cut down on) from the increased number of flights.

The plan also included a low-emission zone for the airport that will charge additional fees for those who drive a more polluting vehicle to the airport.

"We have been working with partners at the airport, in local communities and in government to ensure our plans show how we can grow sustainably and responsibly - with environmental considerations at the heart of expansion," said Emma Gilthorpe, Heathrow's executive director for expansion.