Bournemouth Airport secures planning for expanded terminal and transport interchange

Bournemouth Airport has welcomed planning approval for a major enhancement of passenger facilities that will include an extended terminal and new transport interchange.

Image credit: RCA Group

The plans will see the existing arrivals and departures buildings joined together into a single, modernised terminal, with enhanced baggage, security, and passenger facilities delivered in phases.

Plans also include a new, reconfigured transport interchange with improved access for buses, taxis, cyclists, and pedestrians. The airport will provide £500,000 towards a new regular bus service connecting the local area and £60,000 for a staff travel scheme to encourage sustainable and active travel. There will also be shared electric Beryl bicycles and scooters.

The scheme is part of a phased and ongoing £50m investment by the airport and is expected to create at least 230 direct jobs and hundreds more in the local economy.

The plans were approved 8-1 by Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council’s eastern planning committee following a recommendation to grant permission by planning officers.

Steve Gill, Managing Director of Bournemouth Airport, said, “This decision allows us to invest in the facilities, services, and infrastructure needed to support growth sustainably, while providing a first-class experience for passengers.

“It ensures Bournemouth Airport can continue to serve as a vital regional asset, creating jobs, supporting businesses, and delivering connectivity for the future.”

Bournemouth Airport currently employs around 450 staff and serves 48 destinations. In the year to March the airport saw a record 1.1m passengers. It has long-standing approval for up to 3m passengers annually.

The airport is one of the largest employment sites in Dorset. It includes the neighbouring 200-acre Aviation Business Park which is home to some 200 businesses supporting more than 4,000 local jobs.