Stansted Airport given expansion go-ahead

(10 October 2008)

Plans to expand Stansted Airport have been given the go-ahead by the government.

BAA, the owners of the airport, aim to increase the number of passengers from 25 million to 35 million per year, despite objections from local residents.

Jim Ketteridge of Uttlesford District Council said: “Residents already find the level of aircraft noise extremely disturbing and allowing BAA to increase the amount of air traffic marks a further erosion of our quality of life.”

BAA have agreed to take measures to control and minimise the environmental impacts on the local area.

BAA also wants to build a second runway at Stansted as part of long-term plans for the airport.

Mr Ketteridge, from Uttlesford Council, said: "We are redoubling our efforts to fight the second runway proposals.

"We may not have won this battle, but with the help of our local authority partners, we will do everything we can to win the war.”