Presentation - Stansted Airport
To receive a presentation from Andrew Harrison, Managing Director, Stansted Airport.
Additional documents:
Minutes:
The Chairman welcomed Alistair Andrew, Andrew Harrison and Chris Wiggan of Manchester Airports Group (MAG) to the meeting to give a presentation on their work at Stansted Airport since MAG had brought the airport in January 2013.
Andrew Harrison referred to the untapped potential of the airport, its capacity for growth and the strong economic catchment area served in the burgeoning London-Stansted-Cambridge corridor. Since the acquisition, MAG had been focussing on customer satisfaction, offering value to airlines and developing the “Team Stansted” ethos of strong communications, relationship management with partners and a commitment to corporate social responsibility.
Finally, he looked forward to the future and referred to the recent Sustainable Development Plan issued for consultation and gave an overview of the feedback received. He highlighted the commencement of works on a new education centre which would boost the local skills base and provide employment opportunities.
Various Members asked a number of questions highlighting issues on parking, transport infrastructure, employment opportunities and the general customer experience.
In response, Andrew Harrison referred to the numbers of East Herts residents who worked at the airport and highlighted their contribution to the community and the economy. He explained the improvements made to car parks resulting in greater occupancy. Chris Wiggan believed that the problem of airport users parking in Bishop’s Stortford had reduced, but invited Members to report such activities. A levy on car park income was available for assisting parking scheme proposals.
Alistair Andrew referred to section 106 contributions to the Little Hadham bypass. Andrew Harrison acknowledged the further infrastructure improvements needed and spoke of the ongoing work with partners to achieve greater funding from the Government. He accepted some criticism of the lack of seating at the airport, but reminded Members that this was a period of change and that the situation would improve as enhanced catering facilities became available.
The Chairman thanked the three MAG representatives for attending the meeting.