Purpose

The Draft Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement (HENPS) was published by the Department for Transport on 18 June 2026. The document will replace the Airport National Policy Statement (2018) and once published by the Government will act as the basis for decision making on any Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project application(s) for a new runway and associated development at Heathrow Airport. The Government’s consultation closes on 1 September 2026.

Decision

The Leader of the Council:

1)          AGREED Buckinghamshire Council’s response to the draft HENPS consultation; and,

2)          DELEGATED authority to the Corporate Director for Planning Growth & Sustainability or Service Director for Infrastructure & Major Projects, in consultation with Leader of the Council, to agree the final draft HENPS response for submission to the Government.

This decision is not subject to call-in according to the urgency provisions described in Part G paragraph 2.91 of the constitution – “Decisions of the Cabinet or any Cabinet Member which are urgent (i.e. any delay likely to be caused by the call-in process would prejudice the Council's or the public's interest) will not be subject to call-in.”  The reason for urgency is the statutory timescale imposed to respond to the consultation.