'This is an exciting time': Belfast airport launches consultation on £200m investment plans
Draft proposals aim to prepare the airport for up to seven million passengers a year by 2040, with consultation running until October 27
Belfast City Airport has launched a public consultation on draft proposals for a potential £200 million investment programme aimed at preparing the airport for a significant increase in passenger numbers over the next 15 years.
The consultation, which runs from September 29 to October 27, follows the submission of Proposal of Application Notices (PANs) to Belfast City Council and Ards and North Down Borough Council.
The airport is also seeking public views on proposed changes to its existing Planning Agreement, which is governed by the Department for Infrastructure (DfI). The voluntary consultation will allow residents, businesses and other stakeholders to comment on the wider package of proposals.
The draft plans are designed to support the airport’s anticipated growth to seven million passengers a year by 2040, compared with current passenger numbers, while improving passenger facilities, airport operations and critical infrastructure.
Belfast City Airport chief executive Matthew Hall said: “This is an exciting time for Belfast City Airport, as we move from setting out our vision for the future to beginning the formal consultation process on our draft proposals.
“These proposals have been designed to help accommodate the future demand for air travel across the island of Ireland, which is set to double by 2040, in a way that is responsible, sustainable and mindful of our neighbours.
“As an airport in the heart of Belfast, we are proud to be part of our local community, and we recognise the importance of listening to those who live and work alongside us.
“We encourage local residents, passengers, and businesses to attend one of our consultation events, find out more about our draft proposals, and share their views. The feedback received will help inform any future planning applications and we look forward to hearing from everyone with an interest in the airport's future.”
In parallel with the draft infrastructure proposals, Belfast City Airport will be seeking amendments to its existing Planning Agreement. These amendments will ensure it can meet the forecast increase in demand and unlock the associated benefits, including increased connectivity to the UK and Europe.
Matthew added: “This potential investment represents a significant long-term commitment to Belfast and Northern Ireland. By planning ahead for future demand, we can ensure the airport continues to support connectivity, tourism, trade and economic growth, while delivering the infrastructure needed for future generations of passengers and businesses.”
Feedback received during the consultation will be used to inform any future planning applications.
Public consultation events will be held across Belfast and Holywood, including Templemore Baths in East Belfast, St Comgall’s in West Belfast, the Clayton Hotel in Belfast city centre, Culloden Estate and Spa in Holywood, Riddel Hall in South Belfast and The Duncairn in North Belfast.
The events are:
Tuesday, September 29 — Templemore Baths, East Belfast, 2pm-4pm and 6pm-8pm.
Wednesday, September 30 — St Comgall’s, West Belfast, 2pm-4pm and 6pm-8pm.
Thursday, October 1 — Clayton Hotel, Belfast city centre, 12pm-3pm.
Tuesday, October 6 — Culloden Estate and Spa, Holywood, 2pm-4pm and 6pm-8pm.
Wednesday, October 7 — Riddel Hall, South Belfast, 2pm-4pm and 6pm-8pm.
Thursday, October 8 — The Duncairn, North Belfast, 2pm-4pm and 6pm-8pm.
The consultation runs from September 29 to October 27, with feedback also welcomed in writing or through Belfast City Airport’s dedicated consultation website.
The full draft proposals and details of how to take part are available through the airport’s consultation website.