The Thames Hub, which has at its heart a new airport and orbital rail network, has been criticised by environmentalists for the impact it could have on bird populations nearby.

But the project would also provide benefits for the environment, as the creation of a flood barrier could be used to generate renewable tidal energy.

By integrating the proposed new estuary airport east of London with other forms of transport, such as the £20bn high-speed orbital railway around London, journeys could become more joined up, with less need for passengers to travel by car, thus cutting carbon emissions.

A comprehensive environmental management strategy also aims to minimise the impact of development and provide opportunities to create significant new wildlife habitats to offset losses to the aforementioned birds.

In the end, economic factors and viewing the costs and benefits of the projects on a larger scale will affect the Government’s decision on the Hub rather than these environmental concerns.

However, many will use them to either oppose or support the scheme, meaning these are important considerations for all involved.