The leader of Hillingdon Council is one of four council leaders to accuse the government of failing to come clean on the real impact of Heathrow expansion. 

In written evidence to the Transport Select Committee, Hillingdon, Richmond, Wandsworth and Windsor and Maidenhead councils, said the government’s draft National Policy Statement ignores all the fundamental concerns about expanding Heathrow. 

Councillor Ray Puddifoot, Leader of Hillingdon Council, said: "The government repeatedly chooses to ignore the facts that are plain for the rest of us to see - that an expanded Heathrow would break the law on air quality and pollution and have a disastrous impact on people's health and wellbeing.

"It is gravely mistaken if it thinks we're going to stand by and let that happen. 

"It's time the government stops wasting time and taxpayers money and turns its attention to finding a workable alternative to Heathrow."

In the evidence the councils highlight a series of concerns including an increase in noise, problems with access and increased pollution.