Expansion at London Luton Airport expected to create 10,500 new jobs
London Luton Airport (LLA) will bring a further £1 billion annually to the economy and create 10,500 new jobs over the next 15 years. The findings come from a new report into the airport’s economic impact, published by independent consultancy Oxford Economics.
The airport, which already supports £1.3 billion of economic activity and 27,200 jobs today, has begun investing £110 million to redevelop the airport by 2020. As well as delivering major improvements for passengers, the transformation will increase capacity from 12 million to 18 million passengers per year.
The report comes as LLA experiences record passenger growth. 24% more people passed through the airport in November this year than in the same month last year, making LLA the fastest growing major airport in the UK. The airport has also added 20 new routes and welcomed four new airline partners in 2015.
The Oxford Economics study also shows that the airport creates a large proportion of highly skilled jobs for the region. The figures show that the average gross wage at LLA is £38,000, compared to the national average of £27,000. In addition, 40% of the new jobs created will be in management, professional or skilled occupations.
Nick Barton, CEO of LLA, commented: “This report vividly illustrates the economic benefits that LLA brings to the local and regional economy. As we deliver on our ambitious £110 million plans to transform the airport, we will be working hard to ensure that our region and local communities reap the maximum benefit and share in our success.
“The report is very timely as the government considers the location of a new runway in South East England. The Airports Commission made clear that it is imperative for the UK’s international competitiveness that airports such as LLA grow. Our redevelopment will ensure that we continue to punch above our weight within London’s six runway system, delivering greater choice, value and service to passengers.”
Councillor Andrew Malcolm of Luton Borough Council commented: “London Luton Airport already makes a huge contribution to the economy of Luton and the Three Counties area. This report illustrates how the airport’s expansion will ensure that it continues to deliver prosperity and jobs for local people through its investment and redevelopment programme.”
Cheryl Smart MBE, CEO of Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce, commented: “This report lays out the scale of the opportunity presented by LLA’s growth. LLA is a hugely valuable asset for the region’s business community. Many local firms cite the proximity of the airport is a key driver in their choice to locate or expand in Bedfordshire.”
Partha Dey, MD of Luton-based National Sameday Couriers, said: “LLA is central to the success of our business. We have enjoyed growth of almost 200% in the last three years thanks in large part to working to integrate ourselves within the airport’s supply chain. We anticipate being able to create more jobs and further grow our business in tandem with LLA’s expansion.”