Bristol Airport
Following a competitive tender, Alpha Planning was appointed in 2020 to provide general and specialist aviation planning advice and evidence on behalf of North Somerset Council.
We represented the council in an appeal submitted by Bristol Airport, following the original refusal of planning permission.
The airport proposed to expand its capacity from 10mppa to 12mppa, with the development entailing extensions to the terminal, alterations to the airfield, widening of the A38, and the provision of 6,350 car parking spaces within the green belt.
-
![]()
Expert Witnesses
Our role involved liaising with the Council’s officer team, as well as expert witnesses presenting evidence in relation to forecasting, economics, transport, noise, air quality and climate change.
-
![]()
Public Inquiry
The public inquiry commenced in July 2021 and lasted until October.
Prior to the date of the public inquiry, an updated environmental statement was submitted and it was necessary to review the revised information in preparing for the inquiry.
-
![]()
Outcome
The Inspectors found that the proposed car parking would cause harm to the green belt. However this, and other harm, was ultimately considered to be outweighed by the very special circumstances, namely the need and economic benefits of the proposed development, with the appeal being allowed.
