The inquiry sat for 36 days between 20 July 2021 and 8 October 2021 and was then followed by evidence on a short related CPO inquiry. The inquiry was one of the first major blended (i.e. hybrid) inquiries, with hearing sessions held ‘actually’ at Weston Super Mare Town Hall, but also with ‘virtual’ appearances by some witness and advocates.

The inquiry was arranged on a topic basis and considered: air traffic forecasting, socio-economic benefits, noise (including air noise), air quality, health, climate change, landscape, green belt, car parking demand, surface access, policy and planning balance.

The inquiry received evidence from more than 60 witnesses from the principal parties, being the applicant (Bristol Airport Limited), the local planning authority (North Somerset Council), and five Rule 6 parties. In addition, it heard evidence from more than 80 interested parties, both opponents and supporters of the proposed development.
Bristol Airport Limited was represented throughout by Michael Humphries QC and Daisy Noble of Francis Taylor Building, instructed by Vicki Redman, Elizabeth Tones and Sarah White of Womble Bond Dickinson.

A link to the decision letter can be found here.