Centre-right think tank the Centre for Policy Studies (CPS) has stated unequivocally that a bigger Heathrow is essential for growth, and furthermore, would be the cheapest and most effective way to increase Britain’s air capacity, and retain a hub in the country. They also argue that persistent delays – such as the ongoing Davies Commission, which has put off settling the issue until after 2015 – are impinging upon Britain’s economic prospects by harming business.

David Cameron has apparently been happy to dodge the issue of what to do about Britain’s airports – no doubt conscious that on one hand, new builds or expansions take so long to complete that his administration would not see the benefits, while on the other hand, opposing them out of principle could be politically costly.

However, in its new report Double Up On Heathrow, the CPS argues that delaying could be fatal: with the airport operating close to full capacity – and therefore vulnerable to the type of chaos seen in January this year – a decision has to be taken soon to maintain the UK’s position as a centre for travel, and the associated benefits that brings. The group advocates doubling the number of Heathrow’s runways, which would:

i) increase capacity;

ii) be cheap (an estimated £10 billion compared to £65bn for Lord Foster’s Thames Hub) and quick (achieved within five years);

iii) utilise the existing transport infrastructure, which could be extended to incorporate HS2 and the Great Western Main Line; and

iv) minimise any extra noise pollution compared to alternatives.

Certainly, any decision needs to be taken sooner rather than later, as logistics for the HS2 scheme would no doubt depend upon what is planned for Heathrow or elsewhere, and the continued uncertainty will be interfering with businesses’ capacity to plan ahead.

While the authors admit that Heathrow is not perfect, it appears to hold significant advantages over the other alternatives. Even if air travel fails to grow as predicted, giving Heathrow “wiggle-room” will surely help mitigate the difficulties encountered during bad weather. It could also enable alternation of runway use, thereby reducing noise pollution further. It is understandable why political leaders are dithering, but a quick, correct decision is vital.