A study previously commissioned by the AirTrack Forum indicated that the environmental effects of the scheme are generally positive. AirTrack has the advantage of following the route of current or former transport corridors and should deliver a reduction in noise and greenhouse gas emissions, whilst helping to improve local air quality. The Forum believes that any environmental impact on Staines Moor and Staines Town Centre should be mitigated through careful design and appropriate measures.

Consultations undertaken by BAA on the detailed Heathrow Airtrack proposals during 1998 identified particular concerns regarding the impacts of the scheme on Staines Moor and Staines Town centre and on level crossings in particular areas.  Alterations to the proposal have addressed some of these issues and in the case of level crossings, work is continuing to explore possible solutions.

In July 2009, HAL (Heathrow Airport Ltd) submitted an application to the Secretary of State for Transport for an order under the Transport and Works Act 1992, seeking powers to construct, maintain and operate the railway and to acquire the necessary land and associated planning consents.  This application will be subject to an environmental impact assessment. 

It was originally anticipated that a Public Inquiry in to the scheme might take place in early 2010, but additional detailed work on timetabling and level crossing downtimes has resulted in the likelihood that the Inquiry will be delayed until the Autumn of 2010.   Additional information on the assessment of the effects at level crossings will be made available as part of an addendum to the Environmental Statement; expected during spring 2010. 

Please note that the AirTrack Forum has no responsibility for the content of the HAL application to the Secretary of State.