Airport expansion 'vital' to Bristol's future prosperity

The plans to expand Bristol International Airport are vital for long-term economic regeneration in south Bristol, an expert has said.

Ned Cussen, partner at international property consultants King Sturge and the firm's national airport expert, said: "While the environmental impacts of any expansion of the airport need to be recognised and explored fully, the development is, I believe, vital to the future regeneration of south Bristol and the surrounding area."

Mr Cussen pointed to the examples of other major European cities where airports have been significant factors in driving economic growth.

"In my experience, based on UK and foreign instances, it is patently clear that airports throughout Europe are the major economic growth generators and it is hugely important for our future prosperity that we follow their lead," he said. "This is a very important issue, not just for the region but also for the future of Bristol, and regional planning highlights the importance of the airport to the regeneration of south Bristol. Any hurdles to its expansion will undoubtedly set us back."

He added: "Many other influential voices have also aired similar concerns about any constraints to the airport's growth, including the Regional Development Agency and Business West, both of whom are strong supporters of the airport."

The multi-million pound scheme, introduced to meet a projected increase in passengers from six million a year to 10 million by 2020, includes an expanded terminal, multi-storey car parks, new runway apron and demolition of the old terminal. The planning authority for the airport, North Somerset Council, will decide on the airport's expansion plans in February 2010.