The controversial expansion of Heathrow Airport has taken a “significant step” forward as bosses revealed plans for a public consultation in the New Year.

The 10-week consultation will launch on January 17 and run until March 28, with Bucks residents being urged to give their views on plans to create a third runway.

The survey will be formed of two parts, the first on infrastructure design options and how to mitigate environmental impacts, while the second with focus on the future design of new flight paths around the major airport.

Heathrow bosses say they will “not compromise on any of its commitments to the local communities as part of this consultation” – including a six and a half hour ban on scheduled night flights and only releasing new capacity if it meets strict air quality limits. 

A Heathrow campaigner has vowed to fight for tough conditions to benefit residents in the area and “give a voice” to those under the Heathrow flight paths.

John Stewart, chair of the HACAN campaign group, said: “These will be very important consultations for local communities.   They could impact the quality of people’s lives for generations to come.

“During the consultation period HACAN will be putting forward tough proposals to mitigate the impacts of a third runway should it be given the go-ahead. 

“And we will seize the chance to assist with the design of new flight paths so that they give local people as much respite from the noise as possible.”