Plans have been submitted for a major expansion to Luton Airport, one of the largest airports in the UK.
London Luton Airport has submitted revived plans for an expansion that would see annual passenger capacity nearly double – from 18m to 32m passengers per year.
Luton Rising, the Luton Council company that owns the airport, said the plans include community funding proposals that could provide an additional £14m every year for communities across Luton and neighbouring areas.
Consent is being sought to build a new terminal that would serve as an extension to the current airfield platform, as well as new airside and landside facilities.
The airport owners also aim to enhance the surface access network and extend the Luton DART (Direct Air-Rail Transit), which will transport passengers from Luton Airport Parkway station to the terminal of London Luton Airport in under four minutes.
The owners also say they want to progress further infrastructure enhancements and initiatives to help achieve zero-emission ground operations by 2040.
The proposals have been shaped by an consultation programme lasting for more than four years.
Commenting on the proposal, Graham Olver, chief executive officer of Luton Rising, said: “We’re pleased to bring forward these proposals for the expansion of London Luton Airport – we aim to enhance economic activity in and around Luton, provide numerous community benefits, and make the airport a leader in sustainable aviation.
“We now wait in anticipation for the Inspectorate’s decision as to whether we proceed to the examination stage of the DCO process.
“We hope that this will mark the start of the next phase of our commitment to grow London Luton Airport and help to deliver the employment, prosperity, and positive social impact for Luton and neighbouring communities that they so richly deserve.”
Image: A CGI of Luton Airport’s proposed expansion. Credit: Luton Rising
Read next: UK’s first commercially available 3D-printed home insurance policy launched
Are you a building professional? Sign up for a FREE MEMBERSHIP to upload news stories, post job vacancies, and connect with colleagues on our secure social feed.
