Luton’s airport to be investigated for noise and climate change

The London Luton Airport Operations LimitedLuton Airport Operations Limited LLAOL applied to increase passenger capacity from 18 million to 19 million per year and to change noise contours.

In July a pre-inquiry meeting was held in the Council Chamber of Luton Town Hall to outline the management of the process.

The agenda included seven areas that they considered to be the main aspects of the application, which were air quality, climate change, the impact of noise, sustainability, socio-economic implications, and whether it would be consistent with the local development plan and other policies.

Local LADACAN protest group Luton and District Association for the Control of Aircraft Noise said it was pleased there would be an inquiry.

Andrew Lambourne, from LADACAN, said earlier this year: "We're really grateful for the support of local MPs, councils and other groups in helping to get this decision called in.

We expect the hearings to shine some uncomfortable light on how the airport and borough council failed to achieve the required balance between growth and mitigation, instead focusing on maximising revenues. After the worst crisis that our industry has ever faced, our project will allow the airport to be put on the best possible footing for a long-term recovery, which supports the local economy and creates jobs.

The plan is consistent with our commitment to achieve carbon neutrality for our operations by 2026 and achieve net zero emissions by 2040.