London City and Heathrow airports have been urged to work together to cut the amount of noise caused by airlines.

Members of the London Assembly’s Health and Environment Committee believe alternating runways will provide residents with relief from flight disruption.

The politicians also suggested that an independent body should take care of mitigation and compensation schemes for both airports, and that a combined noise map is drawn up.

The recommendations were made in response to the Government’s Draft Aviation Policy Framework consultation. The London Assembly, including Mayor Boris Johnson, unanimously opposes any expansion at Heathrow.

Members also studied the air quality around the airport, where areas are already in breach of European Union limits.

To tackle the environmental impacts of aviation, the consultation response also makes recommendations on research into developing cleaner aircraft and fuel technology.

Chairman Murad Qureshi said: “Tackling the impacts of aviation is a big issue, both globally and for the people who live close to airports and bear the brunt of the detrimental effects. They could be in danger of serious health consequences.

“As politicians and experts gear up to discuss various options for airport expansion, there are understandably concerns that more runways and airports will bring increased noise and emissions which will seriously affect local residents’ quality of life.

“It is absolutely critical that the Government gets the policy right and develops the best available advice for airport operators. We urge the Government to take on board these concerns.”