Southampton: Airport unveils Master Plan for long-term growth
Southampton Airport has 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.
Source - https://www.businessmag.co.uk/southampton-airport-unveils-master-plan-long-term-growth/