Gensler has become the latest architecture practice to wade into the debate over aviation capacity in the South East, with alternative proposals for Heathrow and the Thames Estuary.
The global design firm has unveiled images of an alien-like floating airport to be built in Essex, together with proposals to turn Heathrow into an “eco city”.
The plans for a new airport in the Thames Estuary echo those being promoted by Lord Foster, which have been backed by London Mayor Boris Johnson. Terry Farrell has also released a vision for the estuary, however his plans do not include an airport.
Gensler said its proposals would solve Britain’s airport issue, while creating a new eco suburb – dubbed Heathrow Gardens – which could house 300,000 people and create 200,000 jobs.
Gensler managing principal Chris Johnson said: “This is a once in a century project that will build on the capital’s reputation for innovation and creativity and provide a new symbol of national pride. This is a fantastic opportunity to rethink the problems created by a redundant 20th century airport model and provide a genuine 21st century airport that creates a new standard for the world, minimising nuisance and maximising environmental benefits.”
The launch follows the re-emergence of the debate over what to do about Britain’s creaking aviation infrastructure, as Prime Minister David Cameron yesterday removed West London MP Justine Greening from the role of Transport Secretary.
Greening was a staunch opponent of Heathrow expansion and the promotion of Patrick McLoughlin to replace her was widely seen as paving the way for a change in the government’s stated policy of no third runway at the airport.
The London Evening Standard reported on Cameron’s plans to appoint former FSA chairman Sir Howard Davies to head an independent commission on the future of Heathrow, due to report in summer 2015, after the next general election.
jack.sidders@estatesgazette.com
