Cardiff Airport has today (Wednesday 18th July) set out ambitious plans to develop the Airport business over the next 20 years as a key gateway to the UK, at a launch event held at the Airport.
The ‘Draft Masterplan’ was launched by Rt Honourable Carwyn Jones, First Minister of Wales; the Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Transport, Ken Skates; Airport Chairman Roger Lewis and Airport CEO Deb Barber.
The Draft Masterplan sets out the Airport’s aspirations to be an outstanding capital city airport connecting Wales to the World and the World to Wales, whilst delivering an exceptional customer experience. With a mission to be a sustainable airport business generating significant economic benefit for Wales, the Airport must be integrated into both local and national planning.
. @Cardiff_Airport has today set out ambitious plans to develop the Airport over the next 20 years. The Draft Masterplan sets out the aspirations to be an outstanding capital city airport connecting Wales to the World and the World to Wales. https://t.co/2wvw6dolwT #CWL2040 pic.twitter.com/gndJSJdung
— Carwyn Jones (@fmwales) July 18, 2018
Cardiff Airport aims to grow from the current 1.5 million passengers per annum to three million and beyond. Facilities must therefore meet the needs of the increased passenger numbers but also meet and exceed modern traveller’s expectations.
All growth must be balanced with local environmental and social concerns, with the Airport recognising the important role sustainability plays in the future vision.
Highlights from the airport’s masterplan
[accordions]
[accordion title=”International Gateway” load=”show”]Build upon our efficient, safe and secure 24/7 operation
Deliver greater capacity to grow to three million passengers per annum and beyond
Attract new airlines, secure new routes and more choice for customers travelling to and from the region
Diversify the airport to create and develop opportunities for aviation, cargo, education, technology and innovation[/accordion]
[accordion title=”A unique place” load=”hide”]Create a public realm for the community to enjoy
Excite customers before they fly and those arriving to Wales
Link businesses across the Airport campus, supporting the region and Enterprise Zone
Support education with a place to learn and innovate[/accordion]
[accordion title=”New Terminal” load=”hide”]Enhance our unique identity as the gateway to Wales, creating a memorable first and last impression
Ensure ease of access for all
Enhance our customer experience with best in class facilities, including SMART technology
Develop our ‘green’ credentials to meet our environmental and social commitments[/accordion]
[accordion title=”New 4* Hotel” load=”hide”]Develop the first on site hotel
Offer more choice in local accommodation for customers
Offer business meeting and conference facilities
Provide a convenient base for visitors to explore the region[/accordion]
[accordion title=”New Transport Hub & Car Park” load=”hide”]Offer greater travel choice for customers, the community and the Airport team; car, bus, rail, taxi, car hire and active travel
Offer an improved integrated transport facility
Develop a new multi storey car park close to the terminal building
Offer new services to enhance the customer experience[/accordion]
[/accordions]
First Minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones, said:
“These improvements are ambitious yet achievable and will enable the Airport to continue its development of further aviation links to the rest of the UK, Europe and beyond which will improve its competitiveness and attractiveness as a gateway to international travel and trade.
“We look forward to working with the team at Cardiff Airport to deliver these exciting developments.”
Roger Lewis, Chairman, Cardiff Airport, said:
“2018 has been a transformational year for Cardiff Airport and for Wales as we’ve already welcomed over 9% more passengers to the Airport and more inbound visitors to the country than ever before.
“We have always been ambitious with our plans and this Draft Masterplan continues to show the confidence we have in our business and in the region. The Airport plays a vital role in delivering for Wales and developing even further as a viable alternative gateway to the UK.”
Deb Barber, CEO, Cardiff Airport, added:
“This Masterplan has been created to set out milestones up to the year 2040 that enable us to meet our vision for the future and position Cardiff Airport as a key part of the UK’s transport strategy. We have ambitious plans for growth which can only be achieved if we enhance our infrastructure and create a 5* airport experience for customers that’s efficient, modern and enjoyable.
“Today’s unveiling is an opportunity for us to embark on a period of engagement with stakeholders, customers and neighbours; so that we can gain insight, inform and shape Cardiff Airport’s future.”
Commenting on Cardiff Airport’s Masterplan, President of the South Wales Chamber of Commerce said, Harri Lloyd-Davies said:
“Today’s announcement is good news for Cardiff Airport and good news for the businesses and communities of South Wales.“A strong, successful national airport will increase the opportunities for Welsh businesses to connect to the world and will make it easier for the world to come to Wales.
“A new terminal, a new hotel and other new facilities will bring with it supply chain opportunities for local businesses and the Chamber of Commerce will be working with the team at the airport to ensure our members can make the most of these opportunities.”
Cardiff Airport is asking for feedback on the Draft Masterplan by September 14th 2018. A final Masterplan will then be launched in Autumn 2018.
For more information on the Masterplan, upcoming public events and to submit your views visit: cardiff-airport.com/masterplan2040.
