Southampton Airport, UK, has launched a six-week public consultation for its draft masterplan which sets out its long-term vision for growth.
The masterplan details how the airport plans to grow over the next 20 years including the development of a runway starter extension and the expansion of the existing terminal.
The airport is a key driver of the Hampshire economy and aims to support in excess of 1,500 jobs and contribute £400m (US$528m) to the economy per annum by 2037. Crucially, the masterplan 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 masterplan 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 realize 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.”
Members of the public will have the opportunity to meet with representatives from the airport to discuss the masterplan in more detail and share their feedback. To view the Southampton Airport masterplan and find out further information on drop-in sessions, click here.