Chancellor George Osbourne is being urged to press ahead with plans to expand Heathrow Airport, it has been announced.

Thirteen of the largest construction firms in the UK have written a letter to Mr Osbourne calling for him to support plans to build a third runway at the airport.

The Airports Commission recommended expanding the facility last year at a cost of £18.6 billion.

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However, a final decision has been delayed due to concerns over the projects environmental impact.

However, leaders of major industry companies such as Balfour Beatty and BAM Nuttall have now called on Mr Osbourne to live up to his 'we are the builders' pledge.

The letter states: "At the Conservative conference in 2015 you announced 'we are the builders'.

"We congratulate you on your vision to build the important infrastructure the country needs and make the hard decisions.

"We represent some of the largest developers and construction companies in the UK. We applaud your ambition and stand ready to help you deliver it.

"We are writing to encourage your support for Heathrow expansion."

(LM)