Bristol Airport Moves Free Waiting Zone for Refurbishment

Bristol Airport is temporarily relocating its free waiting zone to make way for major infrastructure upgrades. The move begins on October 19 and remains in effect until December 18. During this period, drivers will use a neighbouring parking area while refurbishment work is completed on the original site.

The airport is spending £1 million on the project. The funds will pay for new electric vehicle charging points and new bus stops. These stops will be positioned directly outside the waiting zone to facilitate passenger drop-offs and pick-ups. The relocation allows contractors to access the customer facilities without disrupting airport traffic.

The waiting zone serves drivers who are waiting to collect passengers. It is located near the car rental centre and offers one hour of complimentary parking. The area includes a pay station, toilets, and litter bins. Most drivers use this space before proceeding to the main drop-off and pick-up car park.

Parking rules for the zone remain unchanged during the move. The first 60 minutes are free. After that, the cost is £20 for a stay of one to two hours. Any time beyond two hours costs £20 for each additional hour or part thereof. A no-return policy applies if a driver leaves and returns within 30 minutes.

Airport management has installed signposts to direct drivers to the temporary location. Pedestrian paths and bus links have also been clearly marked. A spokesperson for Bristol Airport confirmed the dates and the scope of the work. They stated that the relocation is intended to enhance customer facilities while the site undergoes improvement.

Drivers must also observe strict no-stopping policies across the airport site. Vehicles are not permitted to stop, unload, or park on the road networks or designated red routes. This rule applies even when picking up or dropping off passengers. The restrictions are designed to maintain road safety. Non-compliance can result in a fine of up to £100.

The red routes on the A38 and the layby near the airport entrance are managed by North Somerset Council and police. The airport notes that it has some of the highest parking charges in the UK. The drop-off and pick-up zone costs £8.50 for 10 minutes. Only Gatwick and Stansted charge more for the same duration. This update coincides with the airport's request for public feedback on its £500 million expansion plan. The plan aims to reach 15 million annual passengers and launch long-haul flights to the US and Middle East by the late 2030s.