Every person on the electoral register has been sent a voting card as Richmond Council launched its referendum on Heathrow expansion today.

A truck displaying an information video on the future of the airport can be seen driving around the borough today, April 22, and the council are putting on a number of events to inform the public before they vote.

The questions are:

1. Should a third runway be built at Heathrow?

2. Are you in favour of more flights into and out of Heathrow?

More than 600,000 people in west London will cast their vote as Hillingdon and Hounslow have also staged a borough wide votes.

Lord True, leader of Richmond Council, said: “All residents should make sure that their voices are heard on this vitally important issue which affects everyone living in and around west London.

“As individuals we can be brushed aside by powerful lobbyists: coming together we can make a noise that everyone will hear.

“We are determined to give local people a say on Heathrow and on a decision which would have a huge impact on our environment.”

Conservative MP Zac Goldsmith visited Richmond Park Academy this morning to view the ballot box they had made ahead of his Heathrow rally at Barn Elms playing fields on Saturday, April 27 at 9.30am.

He said: “The ballot box is very striking, and I am hugely grateful to the wonderful pupils and teachers at the RPA for putting it together so expertly. “With the right weather, this will be the biggest demonstration yet against Heathrow expansion."

London Mayor Boris Johnson will attend the rally, which is designed to encourage people to vote in the referendum.

People have until May 16 to vote and can do so by using their unique code online or return their ballot card by post.