HOUNSLOW Council slammed the decision to approve the new terminal.

Despite recognising the financial benefits of the decision, the council claimed that its residents will bear the brunt of the scheme's problems.

It also claims that allowing an additional 16,000 flights a year over the borough will have a devastating impact on residents' lives and the surrounding environment.

Council leader Cllr John Connelly also reiterated its pledge to stop all night flights and the construction of a third runway.

Cllr Connelly said: "This is the equivalent of building a new Gatwick alongside what is already the world's busiest international airport. The impact of more than of 25 million additional passengers flying into this already overburdened area of west London every year could have a devastating impact on local people's quality of life."

The council has already called on Stephen Byers MP, the secretary of state for transport, the regions and local government, to hold urgent meetings with all key stakeholders.

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