David Cameron is expected to announce today that he will leave the decision over whether to grant permission to Heathrow to expand will be left to his successor, which could spell an end to the airport’s plans for a third runway.

The two frontrunners for the race to number 10, Boris Johnson and Theresa May, both oppose expansion of the airport, with Mr Johnson once proclaiming he would lie down in front of the diggers himself should the Government give it the green light.

Maidenhead MP Mrs May has previously expressed her concern over noise issues.

However, recent polling shows two thirds of MPs believe giving expansion the green light will strengthen Britain’s economy, according to the airport.

The airport’s chief executive, John Holland-Kaye, said building a third runway must be part of the Government’s Brexit plan.

He said: “It will allow British exporters to trade with all the growing markets of the world, strengthening Britain’s position as one of the great trading nations. And at a time of uncertainty a £16bn privately funded infrastructure investment will create jobs and growth across the UK.

“Government can send the strongest possible signal that Britain is open for business and confident in its future by expanding Heathrow.”

The Department for Transport has been contacted for comment.