THE CHAIR of the Senedd’s Economy, Trade and Rural Affairs Committee Andrew RT Davies has praised Chancellor Rachel Reeves for backing the construction of a third runway at Heathrow Airport, calling it the “biggest investment into Wales in decades.”

Heathrow, which operates at 99% capacity, is a major international hub and a key gateway for businesses and travellers across the UK. The proposed expansion would increase annual flight capacity from 480,000 to 720,000, a move supporters argue will enhance global connectivity, boost trade, and create jobs.

Mr Davies said: “Building a third runway at Heathrow would represent the biggest investment into Wales in decades. Heathrow is a major international hub located along the M4 corridor. The economic activity it will generate will drive growth in Wales, improve living standards and drag people out of poverty.

“My message to the Chancellor is simple: get it built.”

Chancellor prioritises economic growth

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has thrown her support behind the project, stating that economic growth should take precedence over environmental concerns. She argues that the expansion is crucial to revitalising the UK’s economy and securing long-term prosperity.

However, the project is not without its challenges. Environmental campaigners warn that a third runway could lead to significant increases in carbon emissions and noise pollution. Legal battles have also hindered progress in the past, with a 2020 Court of Appeal ruling initially blocking the expansion due to climate concerns. That decision was later overturned by the Supreme Court.

Rising costs and infrastructure challenges

Financial concerns are another hurdle. The estimated cost of the expansion has soared from £14 billion a decade ago to over £20 billion, factoring in inflation. The project also involves complex logistical challenges, including re-routing motorways and satisfying airline stakeholders and investors.

Despite these obstacles, proponents argue that the economic benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. The expansion is expected to provide significant opportunities for Welsh businesses, given Heathrow’s strategic position along the M4 corridor.

With political backing from the Chancellor and strong support from business leaders in Wales, the push for Heathrow’s third runway is gaining momentum. Whether the project overcomes its environmental and financial hurdles remains to be seen, but for now, the message from Wales is clear: build it.

CAREERS Wales has launched updates to its Future Jobs Wales resource, expanding its real-time job market data to include nine new sectors.

The online tool provides up-to-date labour market information (LMI) for industries and regions across Wales, helping individuals make informed career decisions.

Through an interactive webpage, users can explore industry trends, in-demand skills, and key employers. The platform also allows users to compare job market data at local, Welsh, and UK levels.

The newly added sectors include:

• Digital
• Care
• Creative arts, media and culture
• Retail and customer service
• Manufacturing
• Education
• Agriculture and land
• Tourism, hospitality, sport and leisure
• Public services

Users can access insights such as:

• Industry growth or decline projections
• Employment figures within each sector
• Salary expectations
• Jobs currently in demand and future projections
• Skills required for different roles

Emma Blandon, head of digital and communications at Careers Wales, said: “We’re thrilled to have further expanded our Future Jobs Wales resource.

“Information around job trends and future demand can be hugely empowering for those planning their next steps. By delivering up-to-date LMI, this tool helps individuals make informed decisions, identify opportunities, and navigate the evolving job market with confidence.

“Whether you’re starting your career, looking to upskill, or planning your next move, this resource is an invaluable asset for building a brighter future.”

For more information or to access Future Jobs Wales, visit the Careers Wales website.

SAMUEL KURTZ, Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, has pressed First Minister Eluned Morgan on how the Welsh Government plans to meet the skilled employment demands of emerging industries and technologies.

Speaking in the Senedd, Kurtz emphasised Pembrokeshire’s strong industrial heritage and the continued importance of the hydrocarbon sector, including Valero oil refinery and RWE power station. He highlighted new opportunities arising from the Celtic Freeport and potential investment in Floating Off-Shore Wind, which could bring renewed prosperity to the region.

Following the plenary session, Kurtz said: “Pembrokeshire is home to a diverse mix of established and emerging industries, and it is vital that our workforce has the flexibility to transition into the jobs of the future.

“Businesses understand their needs better than anyone, so the Welsh Government must engage directly with the industries that will be creating these opportunities.

“It is unacceptable that the Welsh Labour Government has yet to present a clear plan to support workers in traditional industries should they wish to reskill. Their slow response is damaging investment, harming businesses, and failing those whose future careers depend on decisive action.”