Multi-million pound expansion plans to allow Bristol Airport to cater for 12 million passengers every year have been revealed.

This week it has submitted a planning application to North Somerset Council to try to grow passenger numbers by the mid-2020s.

It is the first step towards the airport’s target to welcome 20 million flyers by the mid-2040s.

Dave Lees, Bristol Airport’s chief executive, said if permission is secured it will allow for more routes and jobs.

The main planned changes would affect the Lulsgate terminal, which would be made bigger with more room afforded to passengers and for baggage facilities.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOEYtXj4ZLU

The front of the building would also have a canopy added and a pedestrianised area to improve access.

A new taxiway link for planes is also planned.

The airport is capped to 4,000 night-time flights, between 11.30am-6pm per year, and the airport does not plan to increase them. However, it wants to alter how the flights are split between winter and summer.

Mr Lees, said: “Following consultation with the local community, airline customers, passengers and other stakeholders, these plans set out sustainable development to meet demand for air travel to and from the South West and South Wales over the next decade.

“They will help deliver more routes, destinations and jobs.”

Travel links to the airport are also being looked at, with bosses aware increasing passenger numbers from nine or 10 million per year will affect the road network. The A38 junctions with West Lane and Downside Road are a ‘focus’ area for changes.

Mr Lees added: “These plans are a practical step to ensuring we continue to connect our region to the world, providing a gateway for business, investment and tourists.

“At the same time, we have sought to minimise and mitigate any impacts on the local community and environment, building on our track record of investment in surface access improvements.”

Car parking is also being looked at to help cope with the proposed rise in passenger numbers. The number of multi-storey facilities would be increased to three while the silver zone section would be extended.