Bristol airport proposes major expansion to 15 million passengers per year
The airport plans to extend the runway, develop terminal facilities, and establish new routes to the US
Bristol Airport has unveiled ambitious expansion plans to increase passenger numbers to 15 million per year.
The proposal, submitted to North Somerset Council, aims to extend the runway, develop terminal facilities, and establish new routes to North America and the Middle East.
The airport is looking to raise the annual passenger cap from 12 million to 15 million by the late 2030s as part of a £500 million investment.
The expansion is projected to add around 1,000 jobs onsite, with 36,000 roles supported through the supply chain.
However, these expansion plans have sparked criticism from environmental activists and local authorities.
Bristol City Council recently joined B&NES Council in opposing further growth, citing concerns about climate change and environmental impact.
Steve Clarke is from the Bristol Airport Action Network: "If we're going to meet our legally-binding climate commitments, we cannot have airports expanding."
"The reality is if we don't tackle climate change, our economic potential will be even more restricted," said Bristol City Council leader Tony Dyer.
Despite opposition, Bristol Airport CEO Dave Lees stated: “Our proposals deliver what customers have told us they want to see at their local Airport.
"We will open up opportunities to visit places further afield and for businesses to expand into new international markets.
“This would improve international connectivity to key world cities enhancing trade, supporting high value sectors and improving inward investment, as well as supporting our world-leading universities in their research and innovation endeavours.
“It is also about connecting family and friends – something that’s important for the West of England where 30% of people now have close family members living abroad.”
The proposed developments include a larger terminal with more retail options, runway improvements to accommodate larger aircraft, enhanced baggage handling systems, and improved transport links to facilitate passenger movement.
The detailed plans will be published on North Somerset Council’s planning portal soon, encouraging local residents and organisations to review and submit their feedback, which will be considered before a council decision later this year.
With this contentious proposal, Bristol Airport remains at the centre of a local debate weighing economic benefits against environmental responsibility.