Belfast City Airport seeks feedback on £200m

Belfast City Airport has begun a public consultation on draft investment proposals valued at £200 million. The process follows the submission of initial planning notices to Belfast City Council and Ards and North Down Borough Council.

The consultation, which runs from 29 September to 27 October 2026, invites residents, businesses, and stakeholders to review the plans. Feedback can be provided in person at airport events, in writing, via a dedicated website, or by email.

Matthew Hall, Chief Executive at Belfast City Airport, framed the consultation as a key step. This is an exciting time for Belfast City Airport, as we move from setting out our vision for the future to beginning the formal consultation process on our draft proposals, he said.

The driver for growth

The airport states the investment is necessary to accommodate future air travel demand across Ireland, which it says is set to double by 2040. It is currently estimated the airport will need to handle 7 million passengers annually by that date.

To support that growth, the draft proposals outline enhancements to passenger facilities, improvements to airport operations, and investments in critical infrastructure. The airport claims this will strengthen Northern Ireland’s connectivity and economy.

Amendments to the Planning Agreement

In parallel with the physical infrastructure plans, the airport will seek voluntary public consultation on changes to its existing Planning Agreement. This agreement is governed by the Department for Infrastructure (DfI).

The proposed amendments are intended to ensure the airport can meet the forecast increase in demand. The airport states this would unlock associated benefits, including increased connectivity to the UK and Europe.

Community engagement a priority

Matthew Hall emphasised the airport's community role in his statement. As an airport in the heart of Belfast, we are proud to be part of our local community, and we recognise the importance of listening to those who live and work alongside us, he said.

He encouraged local residents, passengers, and businesses to attend consultation events to share their views. The airport asserts that the feedback received will help inform any future formal planning applications. The consultation period offers a final opportunity for public input before plans are finalised and submitted.