Bristol Airport expansion approved

27/05/2010

By James Wilson

A multi-million pound plan to redevelop Bristol International Airport has been given the green light.

North Somerset councillers passed the £150 million plan on Monday (May 24th), allowing the facility's annual passenger numbers to rise from six million to ten million by 2020.

It is thought the expansion will create over 3,500 jobs and bring £340 million to the region's economy.

The expansion will see the airport double its floor space and add services to destinations such as Singapore, Dubai and Toronto, it has been reported.

Bristol Airport chief executive Robert Sinclair said the plan sets out "a vision for a world class airport" in the region, offering "an improved passenger experience while at the same time making sure we are at the forefront of sustainability in the aviation sector".

Bristol Airport's plans were recommended for approval by the council's south area committee last week subject to 60 conditions, including restrictions on night flights.

The plans include the construction of a new car park, as well as an extended terminal and new aircraft stands.

A six week consultation on the proposals is now underway.