BAA (British Airports Authority) re-affirmed its commitment to build the first full-length runway in the South East at Stansted, subject to planning approval , in an update today to stakeholders.

Mike Clasper, Chief Executive Officer, said: "Stansted has had a great year. We`ve grown passenger numbers, revenue and profit and made good progress with the Generation 2 project. I`m very confident that we will deliver the project successfully in line with the policy framework set out in the 2003 White Paper."

In today`s progress report for stakeholders, BAA also announced that 2013 would be the earliest completion date for Stansted`s new runway project (Generation 2). The project comprises a new runway, terminal and aircraft stands; road and rail infrastructure and other developments.

Alastair McDermid, G2 Project Director, said, "We have had a fantastically busy first 18 months on the project and overall, I`m pleased with progress. However, because of the complexities and challenges thrown up by road, rail and regional planning, the project has moved at a slower pace than originally expected. Consequently, we now see 2013 as the earliest completion date and that itself is a challenging target."

BAA also reported that it had already invested £13 million in early design and preparation for the planning application, and £16 million on voluntary property schemes, which are in operation to support those worst affected by plans for the new runway.

Stakeholders were also advised that public consultation on BAA`s proposed location for the new runway would begin in November this year, and that an Environmental Impact Assessment, together with public consultation on the airport draft final masterplan would take place in autumn 2006.

The planning application in 2007 will be followed by a public inquiry, after which the Secretary of State will make a final decision on the application and conditions. Subject to planning approval; the right market conditions; and regulatory formula, the BAA Board will then decide on how to proceed with the development.

Alastair McDermid added: "The team at Stansted is fully committed to working with all local stakeholders, and today is an important moment in the development programme to bring everyone up to date with progress. This is a process we will repeat as the project continues to move forward."

Stansted Development Timetable