Application Number:                    09/P/1021/VO
Name:                                  IoD South West
Address:                               Kings House, 14 Orchard Street, Bristol, BS1 5EH
Tel:                                   
Email:                                 
Date and time of comment left:         08-07-2009 15:31
Comment Type:                          Support Proposal
Comment:

On behalf of the Institute of Directors (IoD) and its 3300 members in the South West region, I am writing to express our support for the proposals for the future development of Bristol International Airport as set out in the planning application dated 16 June 2009.  

The IoD South West believes that these plans are good for North Somerset, Bristol and the wider South West region for the following reasons:

1.	For the region to thrive, economically and as a place to live, it is important that the region is well connected by air to the rest of the UK, Europe and beyond.
2.	Some 3000 direct employees already depend on the success of Bristol International Airport for their livelihoods.  Many more people throughout the area work in businesses that derive some or all of their income from the airport.
3.	Access to a thriving regional airport is a vital factor for the South West to attract and retain high quality employers and employees to the region.
4.	The planning application sets out a considered, low impact approach to development, balancing economic development with environmental and community initiatives.  The plan has been adjusted to reflect concerns expressed during consultation.  I am pleased to see that it includes many positive initiatives in respect of design and environmental impact.

The IoD would like to emphasise the key importance for the continued positive development of the South West economy that we have an airport capable of fully serving the regionâ??s anticipated future travel requirements. 
 
Many IoD members and their colleagues rely on the airport for their individual travel needs as well for business and employment opportunities.  I would urge North Somerset Council to support the development plans for Bristol International Airport in the interests of the local area, the region and everyoneâ??s future.