Extinction Rebellion protesters to storm Leeds Bradford Airport expansion meeting

The climate activists and a local residents group will protest against the airport's expansion at the meeting at Mercure Park Hotel on Saturday.

Bosses revealed plans for a multi-million pound terminal building to help boost passenger numbers and attract new routes last month.

The new terminal will be privately funded by Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA)’s owners AMP Capital and be located closer to the proposed Parkway station that would connect the airport to Leeds by rail.

However, Extinction Rebellion supporters claim plans for additional night flights would bring more noise to nearby residents, as well as increasing air pollution and traffic congestion.

Protesters will disrupt a public consultation meeting, held at the Mercure Parkway Hotel on Otley Road at 10am on Saturday.

They also plan to storm the second consultation event at 3pm on Monday.

Chris Foren, chair of the Group for Action on Leeds Bradford Airport (GALBA), said: "The residents of Otley, Yeadon, Horsforth, Guiseley, Rawdon, Adel, Wharfedale, Weetwood, Headingley, Hyde Park and Kirkstall all need to be properly consulted.

"Holding just two events - some distance from where most people live - is completely inadequate.”

Airport bosses say the new terminal will reduce carbon emissions, helping the airport to meet Leeds Council's zero carbon emissions target by 2023.

Speaking to the Yorkshire Post last month, Hywel Rees, chief executive of LBA, said: “Leeds Bradford Airport is the global gateway to one of the most beautiful parts of the world, so it is vital passengers get the world class service this new terminal will provide.

“The new building will be more sustainable and efficient, helping the airport meet its net zero carbon emissions target by 2023, while boosting the local economy and securing thousands of jobs.”

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