London Stansted’s planning application to increase its annual passenger limit up to 51 million passengers has received the backing of more than 1,400 people and organisations.
Stansted’s plan is due to be decided by councillors on Wednesday 17 December.
Uttlesford District Council has so far received 1,410 supporting comments from a combination of local people, airport staff, airlines and passengers. Unions, businesses, business organisations and representatives from the tourism, hospitality and education sectors have also given their support.
Almost half of those comments highlighted the potential for the plan to boost the local economy, attract investment, and create new employment opportunities.
Officials have recommended the plans for approval (subject to conditions) citing the ‘clear economic benefits’ of the plan.
Support also focused on the improvements to transport infrastructure and the potential for more destinations and training opportunities.
Growth to 51 million passengers a year will see:
4,500 new jobs created, supported by the airport’s existing training and education facilities
Improvements to M11 Junction 8 to reduce congestion
Enhanced funds for local bus services, roads and tackling fly-parking
Over half of all passenger journeys by public transport, to relieve pressure on local roads
Gareth Powell, London Stansted’s Managing Director, said:
“I’d like to thank everyone who submitted a comment in support of our plan – it’s a real vote of confidence. We’re in this for the long haul – putting in the place the measures now to support growth in the future. Now it’s up to local councillors to weigh the evidence and make their decision.”
Organisations that have voiced their support include:
Denise Rossiter CEO, Essex Chambers of Commerce & industry Ltd:
“The Essex Chambers of Commerce strongly support Stansted Airport’s application to increase its passenger cap from 43m to 51m passengers per year.
“Our membership is very substantially in support of the airport’s plans, encouraged by the economic opportunities for Essex businesses and reassured by the sustainability of the proposals.
“The development of the airport, a key international gateway to the world, will be critical to the growth and increased prosperity of Essex, and its attractiveness as a destination for investment”.
