Heathrow Airport has confirmed plans to expand capacity at Terminal 2 and Terminal 5.   

It is also looking to improve the layout of the airfield and increasing the number of aircraft stands to improve punctuality.   

Bus and coach connections will also be improved and the airport will use more sustainable sources of power.

In a major address delivered at British Steel Scunthorpe, Heathrow CEO Thomas Woldbye also confirmed the airport is developing proposals for a third runway to share with Government by summer.  

Woldbye said: “This privately funded programme will upgrade existing infrastructure while laying the groundwork for a third runway, boosting UK investment and economic growth, with tangible benefits felt this year.

“A third runway is critical for the country’s future economic success, and I confirm we will submit our plans for a third runway to Government this summer.

“Ahead of then, as part of a phased expansion programme and supported by the Government’s clear backing, I am today confirming multi-billion-pound investment plans, 100% privately funded, to upgrade our terminal buildings, enhance passenger experience, and improve resilience and sustainability. This is vital investment and will ensure Heathrow remains globally competitive and a jewel in the country’s crown – the UK’s Gateway to Growth”.   

The announcement came within weeks of the UK Labour Government voicing its backing for the third runway, which had been put on hold by the previous Government.