NEGOTIATIONS are underway to prevent the Heathrow expansion becoming an intrusion.

Frustrations had been raised at Slough Borough Council after Heathrow seemingly ignored planning requirements it had set out, that would have ensured a ‘green envelope’ around Colnbrook, into which Heathrow would not intrude.

Instead, the consultation set up by Heathrow showed plans for major new road developments within Colnbrook, and a taxiway that was just a few hundred meters from Pippins School.

However, council leader, James Swindlehurst, said he had reached agreement with Heathrow that they will ‘review alternatives’ to the currently proposed roads for Colnbrook.

They have also agreed to set up a workshop along with the council to explore other options. Heathrow has also announced that they are ‘committed’ to working with Pippins School to mitigate the impact of the expansion.

The airport also pledged funding for a Historic Area Assessment for Colnbrook, which will work to identify buildings and landmarks with historical significance and determine what additional protections they need.

Cllr Swindlehurst said: “I have always said the publication of the consultation was the start of a process, and that Slough would use its relationship with Heathrow to fight for the interests of our communities.

“Our support for expansion has never been in question. But as elected decision makers we will always work to ensure our communities are protected.”

Cllr Dexter Smith (Con, Colnbrook with Poyle) said: “The Historic Area Assessments are supposed to be done by the council every ten years - and the last was in 1997. It’s ten years out of date, so I welcome that.

“I’m glad there has been some movement, but this is not a fundamental change in position.”