Community and transport partners unite to boost sustainable travel

London Stansted welcomed more than 100 transport professionals, local authority representatives, and community partners to its annual Transport Forum at the Radisson Blu Hotel on November 5.

The event brought together key organisations to explore how public transport can become an even more attractive and practical choice for passengers, employees, and local residents, and how stronger collaboration can unlock wider economic benefits for the region.

Gareth Powell, Managing Director of London Stansted, opened the forum by unveiling three new sustainable travel strategies focused on bus, coach and rail services, walking and cycling, and employee travel. The plans are designed to make it easier, greener, and more convenient for people to get to and from the airport.

He also shared updates on several improvements already underway, including barrierless technology on the terminal forecourt to ease congestion during busy drop-off times, and the rollout of contactless payment on the Stansted Express by Christmas. Work is also progressing on a new shared cycle and footpath along Long Border Road, linking Bishop’s Stortford to the terminal to give staff and residents a safer, greener commuting option.

Mr Powell highlighted the airport’s ongoing partnership with Essex County Council to tackle fly-parking in nearby Takeley, which includes new red lines on key routes and further consultation with residents on stronger parking controls.

He also updated attendees on the airport’s wider transformation programme, which includes expanding the security area and introducing new scanners that allow passengers to keep electronics and liquids in their hand luggage, helping to reduce delays and queues for travellers.

In addition, the airport’s new solar farm project has passed a significant construction milestone following the successful installation of its 1,500th solar panel. Once complete, the facility will generate renewable electricity for the airport, helping to power operations more sustainably.

Speaking at the event, Mr Powell said:

“We’re making real progress in improving how people travel to and from London Stansted. From smarter ticketing and better cycling routes to working closely with local councils, we’re committed to making journeys easier, greener and more reliable. And we know we can only achieve this through strong partnerships.”

Other speakers included Martin Beadle, Managing Director of Greater Anglia, who noted that rail now accounts for 33% of all journeys to the airport. Coach operators John Boughton (National Express) and Wesley Tierney (Flibco) also spoke about their work to encourage more people to choose public transport.