Bournemouth Airport has been given the green light to expand its terminal with a £50m investment. The decision was made by an 8-1 vote from BCP Council's Eastern Planning Committee.
The phased plan involves merging the departure and arrival buildings to create a single terminal. The proposal also includes four extensions for the terminal building, three of which will be implemented in the first phase, along with a reconfigured transport interchange.
The revamped transport interchange will feature four taxi lanes, three bus spots, a new area for Beryl bikes, and improved pedestrian access.
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As one of Dorset's largest employment sites, the airport's £50m investment is anticipated to generate 230 direct jobs and accommodate up to three million passengers.
Sustainability was a key consideration for the development; the airport will utilise energy and thermally efficient materials, and methods for ventilation and heating will achieve a two per cent carbon reduction.
Transport enhancements will also support sustainability efforts, as current bus services to the airport are supposed to run hourly but prove unreliable, creating difficulties for passengers and staff commuting.
More bus has provided a £500,000 contribution to enhance the service, whilst a £60,000 bus fare incentive will be made available to encourage staff to use public transport.
Currently, ninety per cent of staff drive to work, which exacerbates traffic problems surrounding the airport.
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Furthermore, to address hazardous parking issues caused by airport collection and drop-off activities in the vicinity, a red zone will be established.
Cameras will be installed throughout the area to monitor and ensure no stopping occurs within the designated zone.
The total cost to implement the red zone, including camera enforcement and equipment, traffic regulation and red line markings, will reach £170,000.
Clare McCarthy, senior planner, said: "The benefits in this situation outweigh the harms, and any harms that have been identified can all be mitigated."
Russell Horn, Chairman of Brockenhurst Parish Council objected to the proposed plans due to noise from air traffic. In a written statement read out in the meeting he said "complaints about aircraft noise have escalated rapidly".
Steve Gill, Managing Director of Bournemouth Airport, said: "This decision ensures Bournemouth Airport can continue to serve as a vital regional asset, creating jobs, supporting businesses, and delivering connectivity for the future".