Southampton Airport looks to the future in public Master Plan consultation
Southampton Airport has today (Wednesday 19 September 2018) launched a six-week public consultation seeking feedback on its draft Master Plan which sets out its long-term vision for growth.
The Master Plan details how the airport plans to grow and continue to support the region over the next 20 years. It includes passenger forecasts and infrastructure requirements to meet the growing demand for air travel to and from the region. It also highlights the development of a runway starter extension as well as the expansion of the existing terminal building.
The airport is a key driver of the Hampshire economy and aims to support in excess of 1,500 jobs and contribute £400m to the economy per annum by 2037. Crucially, the Master Plan also details the way in which Southampton Airport plans to grow in a responsible and sustainable manner.
Neil Garwood, Managing Director of Southampton Airport, said: “Southampton Airport is a key component of Hampshire’s transport infrastructure and, as one of the largest employers, it makes a significant contribution to the local economy. Our Master Plan details the investment and development required to not only maintain, but importantly how to improve our region’s future connectivity and economic prosperity.
“There are constraints which we must, together with our local communities, overcome if we are to realise our ambition. Southampton Airport has one of the shortest runways in the UK and is unable to provide the same breadth of European air services that other regional airports can offer. We are therefore keen to address this to allow us to provide an enhanced choice of air services to European destinations for our customers and the region as a whole.
“We are fully committed to growing the airport responsibly and looking forward to hearing your ideas on the continued development of our airport. All comments will be carefully considered and taken into account when preparing the final version of the Master Plan.”
The Eastleigh MP Mims Davies said: “This is great news for the community that the ability to fly and work at Southampton Airport will be increased. As the local Member of Parliament, it’s my aim to make sure those great opportunities for our local businesses or holiday-makers are balanced with environmental concerns and the challenge of growing. My experience of the airport is that they are a good friendly neighbour and I’ll be making sure we are all working together to deliver the thriving airport with a strong environmental footprint.”
Members of the public will have the opportunity to meet with representatives from the airport to discuss the Master Plan in more detail and share their feedback. A series of drop-in sessions will be held at the following venues:
- Friday 5 October – Shawford Parish Hall, 17:00 – 21:00
- Monday 8 October – Holiday Inn Eastleigh, 17:00 – 21:00
- Tuesday 16 October – Bitterne Park School, 17:00 – 21:00
- Saturday 20 October – Southampton Airport, 09:00 – 13:00
To view the Southampton Airport Master Plan and find out further information on how to submit your views please visit www.southamptonairport.com/masterplan. The consultation will close on Tuesday 30 October 2018.
The previous Master Plan was published in November 2006, following public consultation. Since then the airport has grown to handle a record 2.1 million passengers in 2017.
Solent LEP Business Director Kevin George added: "The Solent has always been a key UK gateway for trade and, with three international gateways including our two ports and airport, this has never been more true than it is today. The LEP is investing in much needed infrastructure which will help better connect our businesses, residents and communities with each other.
“However, if we are to drive investment, innovation and sustained growth for the next 100 years, we must also ensure we build on our strengths and continue to improve our international connections. We are delighted to see our colleagues at Southampton Airport consulting on aspirations for growth and improved connectivity and encourage all businesses and residents in the Solent to get involved and help shape the future of one of our region's most important economic assets."