Stobart gets Southend approval

LOGISTICS group Stobart has been granted permission to push ahead with a runway extension at its airport in Southend, Essex.

The move, which was expected, means the airport will be ready to take passengers in time for the London olympics in 2012.

Carlisle and Warrington-based Stobart’s application for a 300-metre runway extension was approved by Southend Council but was subject to review by Government.

The group said the changes to Southend would enable it to cater for European business and leisure travel and play a role during the Olympics. The airport is 40 minutes by train from the main Olympics park in East London.
 
Andrew Tinkler, Stobart’s chief, said: “The go-ahead for this project represents another core step in our multi-modal offering with air complementing our road, rail and sea businesses.

“The development of this strategic asset also gives us a southern logistics hub and platform for the Stobart Group. The airport has fantastic potential being well positioned for passenger travel to London and the 2012 Olympics, via our new railway station.”