HEATHROW airport could be expanded further even if a third runway is built BAA's boss revealed today.

Stephen Nelson, the chief executive of the airport operator which is lobbying for a third runway, said he could not promise further expansion would not take place if it was constructed.

At a public meeting organised by the London Assembly's environment committee, he said Heathrow is vital for people travelling on business coming in and out of the country.

He said: "The international connection at Heathrow Airport is essential to global change.

"Not only does the aviation industry serve tourism but the economy is driven by tourism.

"There has been a decline in the number of flights coming and going from Heathrow, from 227 to 180 a day."

But Councillor David Simmonds, the deputy leader of Hillingdon Council, told the meeting that expansion would be detrimental to the people living in and around the borough.

He said: "The area around Heathrow Airport will be in breach of noise and pollution limits stated in the consultation document by 2010, even without the expansion of the airport.

"The Government has made a big assumption in thinking its aviation policy could become part of EU regulations."

John Stewart, chair of HACAN, addressed the meeting on behalf of his and other campaign groups battling against the expansion of the airport due to the impact they believe such a move would have on climate change.

Mr Stewart said: "HACAN has always supported the existence of Heathrow Airport. But we dispute the fact it needs expanding for economic reasons."

"It is wrong to argue that if the airport does not expand then business that is generated by Heathrow will go elsewhere."

The meeting was also addressed by Lord Soley of pro-third runway group Future Heathrow, Councillor Edward Lister, leader of Wandsworth Council, Councillor Serge Lourie, leader of Richmond Council and Councillor Barbara Reid, executive member for planning and environment at Hounslow Council.

What do you think about Mr Nelson's comments. Leave your views below.

To find out more about out our sister paper the Hillingdon Times' Say NO To Heathrow campaign click the link below.