Heathrow protest targets BAA offices

Climate change demonstrators have blockaded BAA offices in a protest against plans to extend Heathrow airport.

The campaigners object to plans to build a third runway and some have clashed with riot squads.

A 24-hour period of direct action began at midday when protesters marched out of their Camp for Climate Action, in fields at nearby Sipson village.

Some aggressive groups were later surrounded by officers near the BAA building.

Others were allowed into the car park where some began erecting tents.

A spokesman for the camp said: "The idea is to occupy the BAA site for as long as we can. We will be giving workshops on climate change."

The camp was set up to oppose Heathrow's planned expansion and aviation generally because members, squatting on land owned by Imperial College, believe carbon-emitting activities like air travel cause climate change.

A spokesman for BAA said: "It's currently not impacting on operations at all. If they want to spend the night in the car park, as long as they do not interfere with our passengers, we are reasonably relaxed."

A Scotland Yard spokesman said three protesters were arrested - for suspected drugs possession, intent to cause criminal damage and assaulting police. They were held at West Drayton police station.

The total of arrests, since protests at Heathrow and Biggin Hill airports began on Tuesday, now stands at 47.

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