Council turns down plans to expand Stansted airport on environmental grounds

BAA's plans to expand Standsted airport have been rejected by the local council.

The airport operator had wanted to increase the number of passengers to 35 million a year by adding a second runway, but Uttlesford District Council in Essex yesterday rejected BAA's planning application.

The council cited noise levels, air quality and pressure on local road and rail infrastructure as reasons for its decision.

BAA, which is owned by the Spanish contractor Ferrovial, is expected to appeal the decision and take the issue to a public inquiry.

Terry Morgan, Stansted managing director, said the council's decision was disappointing and "flew in the face of passenger demand".