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Written question asked by Baroness Pidgeon (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 17 November 2025, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 1 December 2025. It was answered by Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill (Labour) on Monday, 1 December 2025 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Heathrow Express

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government whether they have considered the extension of Heathrow Express paths to (1) Reading or (2) Surrey and Hampshire; and what assessment has been made of modal shift and other benefits of these options.

Answer

The Government recognises the vital role that surface access will play as part of any future expansion of Heathrow Airport. As part of the review of the Airports National Policy Statement (ANPS), launched on 22 October 2025, we will consider all the transport infrastructure and supporting services required to support a third runway, including rail connectivity and mode share targets. This will include considering the impacts for travellers from different regions.

The Government has been clear that expansion must be affordable and delivered in the best interest of passengers. Scheme costs should be minimised and privately financed, including any surface transport costs.

While it would not be appropriate to pre-empt the outcome of the ANPS review at this stage, it will be the responsibility of any expansion promoter to set out a surface access strategy demonstrating how they will meet the requirements set out in the ANPS.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL12006
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Heathrow Airport Heathrow Express
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk