The West of England Combined Authority’s Joint Committee has today voted to officially “oppose the latest plans to expand Bristol Airport”.
The move has been roundly welcomed by environmental groups including Friends of the Earth South West and Bristol Airport Action Network.
The motion brought by Metro Mayor Dan Norris makes good on his manifesto commitment and marks a change in direction for the Combined Authority.
The Metro Mayor will now send the motion to the Planning Inspectorate.
Mayor Norris said: “I am delighted that my motion has been passed. I oppose the latest plans to expand Bristol Airport.
“The plans are badly-judged, badly-timed, and bad for our planet.
“Bristol Airport has not hit previous passenger targets, and now is certainly not the time to seek to expand its flight numbers still further.
“This vote sends an important signal to people living across the West of England that politicians are prepared to show moral leadership and listen to public opinion.
“The vast majority of people understand we are in the midst of a climate and biodiversity emergency, and that we must take action now, instead of sitting on our hands and doing ‘more of the same’.
“This is a good day for the West of England.”