SERIOUS flaws are evident in plans to build a third runway at Heathrow, Hillingdon Council insists.

It has made a detailed response to the Airports Commission consultation on expanding airport capacity in London.

The borough’s response includes a commissioned report on the impact of Heathrow expansion on the health and quality of life of people living nearby.

The Commission is currently considering three expansion options, one at Gatwick and two at Heathrow.

Cllr Ray Puddifoot, leader of Hillingdon Council, said: "Despite spending considerable time and resources on publicity demonstrating the benefits of building a third runway, Heathrow Airport's proposals are full of hollow promises and gaping holes, lacking any realistic assessment of the impact expansion would have on our community.

"It beggars belief that increased noise levels, heightened flood risk, public transport pressures, reduction of air quality, not to mention the trauma of uprooting families who have lived locally for decades, are being glossed over.

“We are also concerned that the so-called economic benefits of expanding the airport do not stand up to closer scrutiny and, ultimately, would not benefit Hillingdon residents.

"The recent activities of Heathrow and its PR machine have demonstrated that neither they nor their incredibly dubious survey results can be believed or taken seriously.

“Our detailed response lays bare these vitally important concerns, which demand to be taken seriously.”

The consultation period ends next Tuesday. The Commission will look at all responses and publish its final recommendations in the summer.