OREANDA-NEWS. As the Airports Commission prepares to launch a national consultation on airport capacity expansion in the UK, British business has provided another signal of support for the unique economic benefits an expanded Heathrow would provide the UK.

Calling on decision makers to recognise the vital role the airport plays in connecting Britain to growth markets around the world, Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce has today endorsed an expanded Heathrow as the best solution to the UK's hub capacity crisis. The move follows a year of consultation with businesses across the UK, during which Chambers of Commerce across the country emphasised the central role transport connections play for business.

Jo James Chief Executive Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce said:

"A strong hub airport connecting the UK to the fast growing emerging markets of Asia and South America is critical to the success of British business. For too long we've been held back by uncertainty over airport expansion and each day wasted sacrifices Britain's global business potential. With the Airports Commission set to launch its national consultation, we must finally act by accepting that expansion at Heathrow as the UK's hub airport, is the only real way to deliver the meaningful long-haul connections that will drive British exports and bring the inward investment that creates jobs here in the UK."

Graeme Elliot Heathrow's Head of Public Affairs said:

"As the UK's biggest port, Heathrow plays a vital role in connecting British businesses to international markets. Sitting at the heart of a global network of arrivals, departures and cargo, Heathrow is uniquely placed to enable the long-haul links to the growth markets that will create jobs here in the UK possible. Expansion at Heathrow means businesses in Kent and right across the UK will be able to reach those fast growing market and take advantage of their full growth potential."

Heathrow submitted its refined plans for a third runway to the Airports Commission in May following discussions with local residents and local businesses, the public, businesses around the country, passengers, airlines and elected representatives across the UK. Heathrow is the UK's only hub and the only option that will connect the whole of the UK to new emerging economies, bringing jobs and prosperity to the country. It is deliverable, fundable and will create a world-class global gateway to make Britain proud.