Friends of the Earth
"Terminal 5 will be a blow to people's health and the environment. The only aviation strategy we now have is one of constant expansion, supported by a biased tax regime and public subsidy."
Robert Evans, Labour MEP whose constituency includes Heathrow
"T5 is as much about money and shops as it is about people and planes.
"BAA [which will build the new terminal] has got different priorities from the rest of us. Instead of just trying to get passengers on to planes as quickly and efficiently as possible, BAA wants to encourage us to spend money in the terminals.
"We should be looking to build a new airport - fit for the 21st century - perhaps on the Thames estuary where we can start again with fast and efficient train links to the City and other parts of the capital."
Eric Pickles, shadow transport minister
"This is a vital boost in difficult times"
Transport 2000, lobby group for sustainable transport
"This is very disappointing. It is another sign that the aviation industry is being allowed to grow out of control.
"The damage caused by expanding air travel causes environmental disturbance to the local community is being ignored so that Heathrow can keep up with the Jones."
