New police agreement for Heathrow
A groundbreaking agreement has been reached on policing Heathrow airport under the requirements of the Civil Aviation Act 2006
The Metropolitan Police Authority, Metropolitan Police and British Airports Authority have approved a police service agreement (PSA), which will secure the future arrangements for how the airport is policed.
The PSA specifies the level of policing provided and the contribution from the airport operator, Heathrow Airport Ltd, a subsidiary of BAA. It also covers the accommodation and facilities provided to enable police to carry out their duties, including counter-terrorism.
Len Duvall, MPA Chair, said: "This agreement brings many benefits to all parties and marks a significant development in the way in which we manage police resources and recover costs at Heathrow, and could be used as a model for how police work with airport operators across the country.
"Historically, negotiations on cost recovery for agreed police posts and duties at Heathrow have proved protracted. But we have worked hard to reach this agreement, which is a good deal for Londoners, the police and the airport operators.
"All parties agree this is an equitable settlement which will benefit all concerned, and finally puts the complex issue of policing one of the largest and busiest airports in the world on a sound footing."
Chief Superintendent Mike Gallagher, head of policing at Heathrow, said: "A great deal of work has been required to reach agreement and the process of negotiation has helped to strengthen our relationship and understanding of all our needs. A strong partnership with BAA and the other businesses helps to make Heathrow safer and drive down crime."
