London Stansted’s expansion plan gets backing ahead of decision
Councillors to decide on proposals for increased passenger capacity at London Stansted
The future of London Stansted Airport’s passenger capacity will be decided by local councillors tomorrow (Wednesday 17th December).
Stansted has applied to increase its annual passenger cap from 43 million to 51 million, with the proposals gaining support from over 1,400 people and organisations, according to Uttlesford District Council.
The application has received backing from local residents, airport staff, airlines, passengers, unions, businesses, and representatives from sectors such as tourism and education. Officials have recommended the plans for approval (subject to conditions), citing significant economic benefits of the proposed expansion.
The plans are projected to generate significant economic opportunities, including 4,500 new jobs supported by Stansted’s training and education facilities.
Almost half of the comments in support of the proposal highlighted its potential to boost the local economy, attract investment, and create further employment opportunities.
Stansted management has also outlined improvements to transport infrastructure as part of the expansion. This includes upgrades to M11 Junction 8 to alleviate congestion, funding for local bus services, roads, and efforts to tackle fly-parking.
The airport aims to ensure that over half of passenger journeys are completed by public transport to reduce pressure on local roads.
Leaders across industries and regions have voiced their support for the expansion. Gareth Powell, Managing Director of London Stansted, 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 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.”
Denise Rossiter, CEO of Essex Chambers of Commerce & Industry Ltd, said: “The Essex Chambers of Commerce strongly support Stansted Airport’s application to increase its passenger cap from 43m to 51m passengers per year. This development will be critical to the growth and increased prosperity of Essex.”
Karim Fatehi OBE, Chief Executive of London Chambers of Commerce & Industry, highlighted the importance of the project: “Increasing passenger capacity at Stansted is a strategic investment that strengthens London and the UK’s position as a global hub.”
Other supporters include Paul Bristow, Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, Dr Robert Singh from the University of Essex, and Unite regional officer Steve Edwards, who emphasised the opportunities for job creation, career development, and investment in sustainable technologies.
The council’s decision on 17th December will determine whether these plans to expand passenger capacity at London Stansted proceed.