Plans to expand Luton Airport and raise its capacity from 18 million to 32 million passengers a year have passed the latest stage of assessment.
The proposals, put forward by Luton Rising, will now undergo detailed examination by the government’s Planning Inspectorate.
If consent is granted, preliminary construction work could start as early as 2025.
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Luton Rising said it submitted an application for a Development Consent Order in late February, following four years of consultation.
It argues the plans outline a strategy for the ‘sustainable development’ of the airport, which will include additional terminal capacity, an extended airfield and improved transport infrastructure and facilities.
However, local protestors have objected to the proposals, saying they will cause “noise blight” for the surrounding areas and describing Luton Rising’s efforts to push them through as “tragic”.
Graham Olver, Luton Rising chief executive, said: “We are delighted that our DCO application for the expansion of London Luton Airport has been accepted by the Planning Inspectorate and look forward to progressing with the next stage.
“We now move into the pre-examination phase which triggers the opportunity for interested parties to submit their comments about the proposed development to the Planning Inspectorate. In the near future people will be able to submit their feedback, and their thoughts and opinions will be welcomed.”
Photo: CraigHastings/Shutterstock.com
More: Luton airport records busiest Christmas Day on record [Jan 23]
Luton airport faces government probe into expansion plans [April 22]