New Mayor backs London Stansted's growth plans
The newly elected Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, Paul Bristow, has backed London Stansted’s plans to raise its passenger cap from 43 to 51 million a year, without increasing the number of flights beyond current permissions.
During a behind-the-scenes tour with Managing Director Gareth Powell, the mayor praised the airport’s role in creating jobs, attracting investment, and boosting international connectivity for the region, pledging his support for its sustainable growth.
Handling around 30 million passengers annually, Stansted is the UK’s leading airport for European destinations. With direct rail links to Cambridge and Peterborough and more than 1,000 Cambridgeshire residents in its workforce, it plays a vital role in connecting the region and supporting local employment.
Mayor Paul Bristow said:
“It was great to visit London Stansted, which provides hugely important international connectivity for Cambridgeshire, Peterborough, and the wider East of England. The airport is crucial to my plan to make our region the fastest-growing economy in the UK. That’s why I support Stansted’s efforts to grow sustainably and continue delivering economic stimulus for our communities. I hope the District Council supports its planning application.”
The mayor also saw progress on Stansted’s £1.1 billion transformation project, which includes a major terminal expansion, more retail and dining options, upgraded security areas, and additional seating and lounges. He was also briefed on the airport’s education and training programmes, including its on-site college, Aerozone, and skills academy.
Gareth Powell, London Stansted's Managing Director, said:
“London Stansted is a key driver of economic growth, not only for Essex but for Cambridgeshire, Peterborough, and the wider East of England. Our £1.1bn transformation will enhance the passenger experience, create thousands of new jobs, and support the region’s ambitions in a sustainable way. We were delighted to welcome the mayor and show how we’re investing in the future of the airport and the communities we serve. It was also great to receive his backing for our planning application which will deliver further sustainable growth to 51 million passengers a year, making best use of our existing single runway without any increase in flights beyond those already permitted.”
London Stansted has submitted a planning application to Uttlesford District Council to increase its annual passenger limit to 51 million over the next 20 years. The application seeks permission to maximise the use of the airport’s existing single runway by the 2040s, within the current airport boundary and without increasing the number of flights already permitted.