The owner and operator of London Luton Airport have reiterated their support for the aviation sector’s contribution to the UK economy, following the Chancellor’s endorsement of its role in driving growth. They are now urging a prompt decision on Luton’s proposed expansion.
Notably, the long-term plans at Luton Airport aim to create 10,900 new jobs, alongside generating an estimated 1.5 billion GBP in annual economic growth by the mid-2040s.
The expansion plans also incorporate a Green Controlled Growth framework, designed to ensure environmental limits are respected. This approach sets defined thresholds for greenhouse gas emissions linked to airport operations, as well as constraints on noise levels, air quality impacts, and surface access arrangements for passengers and staff.
These measures aim to balance economic benefits with environmental considerations as Luton seeks approval for its development plans.
Paul Kehoe CBE, the Independent Chair of Luton Rising, said:We welcome comments made by the Chancellor in her important speech on Wednesday, recognising the role of airports in delivering growth of the national economy. Our proposals can be supported by any government making economic growth its priority.
Here at London Luton Airport we have a ready-to-go scheme that is primed to deliver an economic air-bridge for the Oxford-Cambridge growth corridor and contribute to the success of the country.
The expansion proposals at London Luton Airport include building a second terminal to support growth and enable the airport to serve up to 32 million passengers per year, making the best use of its existing runway.
These proposals were first launched in late 2017. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander is due to give a decision on Luton Rising’s plans by 3 April.
Alberto Martin, Chief Executive of the operating company London Luton Airport, said:We welcome the Chancellor’s growth speech today and now call on the Secretary of State for Transport to formalise the government’s approval of Luton’s expansion plans.
Today, every £1 spent by passengers at the airport, allows the local authority to invest 53p directly into local community causes – 20 times more than any other UK airport. Luton is now at a tipping point with a generational opportunity to boost investment in public services further, which the airport’s growth will deliver.
