A campaign group is relieved that an extra runway has not been recommended for Stansted Airport.

This morning, the Airports Commission, led by Sir Howard Davies, published its final report after almost three years of independent analysis and investigation.

It is now for the Government to consider the commission’s recommendations.

The commission’s main recommendation is that there should be a third runway at Heathrow.

Stop Stansted Expansion chairman Peter Sanders said: "Ten years ago Stansted was first in the queue for a new runway to serve London.

“The report marks a remarkable turnaround and that must come as a great relief to our local community.”

Essex County Council wants the Government to act on today's recommendations to build a new runway at Heathrow.

Leader of the council David Finch said: “We believe a third runway at Heathrow is the most viable option now. It’s affordable, practical and consolidates Heathrow’s position as the UK’s central airport.”

ECC "supports sensible growth" at Stansted in the short to medium term, but is calling for rail connections to the airport to be improved to increase its attractiveness to passengers. 

The council also believes a second runway at Stansted may be an inevitable option after 2030.