3rd Heathrow runway has few friends

LONDON, Nov. 23 (UPI) -- Opposition from the British Environment Agency could derail plans for a third runway at Heathrow Airport, The Sunday Times of London says.

Chris Smith, head of the agency, says targets for the reduction of carbon dioxide could not be fulfilled if the runway is built.

"The European Union directive comes into force in 2010," Smith said during the weekend. "It is important for the environment and the health of the public, but the (United Kingdom) will struggle to meet the targets it sets. How will the further expansion of Heathrow -- with its detrimental impact on air quality and emissions -- help in meeting a target that it is predicted we will exceed?"

Smith was expected to make his opposition even clearer in a speech Monday to the agency's annual conference.

The runway appears to lack support from business leaders, as well. A survey found 95 percent saying the runway would not make much difference to them.

The Conservative Party and others argue that a high-speed rail connection between the airport, northern England and European countries would solve the same problems as an additional runway, while doing less damage.

Prince Charles is also said to oppose the runway, although his staff has said he will make no public pronouncements on it.