BAA has today submitted it Generation 2 (G2) planning applications for the development of a second runway and terminal at Stansted Airport.

In total, four planning applications have been submitted:

• Full planning for the runway, taxiways and other engineering work
• Application for the new terminal and other buildings
• Application for nature conservation and landscaping
• Application for new local roads to replace those affected by the development

Further applications will be made under the Transport and Works Act for rail works at Stansted and for new junctions on the M11 and A120.

Stansted is set to become the location of the first new runway to be built in the South East of England for more than 50 years. Construction is expected to begin in 2011 with the two-runway, two-terminal airport operational in 2015, serving 68 million passengers a year by 2030.

The proposed second runway will be 3,048 metres long, 60 metres wide and located parallel with and 2,200 metres to the east of the existing runway.

Sir Nigel Rudd, Chairman of BAA, said: “BAA is proud to reach this significant milestone in the future development of Stansted. We remain fully committed to building a second runway, a project that is central to government policy in delivering additional runway capacity in the South East. This important project will bring huge benefits to the East of England and UK economy, and will increase choice and opportunity for millions of business and leisure travellers.”