Bishop’s Stortford MP Josh Dean goes behind the scenes

Josh Dean, MP for Hertford and Bishop's Stortford, visited London Stansted for a behind-the-scenes tour, where he gained insight into the airport’s daily operations, its role in the local community, and the opportunities it provides for young people through Stansted Airport College.

During his visit, Mr Dean met with London Stansted’s Managing Director, Gareth Powell, and explored the airfield to see first-hand how teams work around the clock to keep the airport running smoothly and securely.

Mr Dean also received an update on London Stansted’s ongoing £1.1bn transformation, as well as hearing about the airport’s exciting plans for future sustainable growth.

He visited Stansted Airport College, where he learned about how the airport supports young people from Bishop’s Stortford and Hertford in gaining qualifications, securing jobs, and developing rewarding careers in aviation.

The airport’s partnership with Harlow College to run Stansted Airport College, the UK’s only further education college based on an airport campus, provides students with the opportunity to gain industry-relevant qualifications and skills.

As a major driver of the local economy, London Stansted employs 1,500 people from Bishop’s Stortford and Hertford and contributes £142 million GVA to the area.

Stansted’s excellent transport links make commuting easy for local employees, while in the last two years, the Stansted Community Fund has donated £250,000 to local groups, and more than 150 pupils from nearby schools have visited the Stansted Aerozone to learn about careers in aviation.

Josh Dean MP said:

"With 1,500 of my constituents working in jobs directly linked to Stansted Airport, I know what a valuable asset it is for our area. The airport's capacity for both freight and passenger flights, combined with the Government's plans to boost economic growth, mean that Stansted will play a pivotal role in connecting our local businesses and people to the wider world. I look forward to working with them to ensure this growth is sustainable and works for local people."

Gareth Powell, Managing Director of London Stansted, said:

“It was a pleasure to welcome Josh Dean MP to London Stansted and showcase the vital role we play in the local community. The airport is not just a gateway for travel but also a hub for jobs, skills, and opportunities for people in Bishop’s Stortford, Hertford, and beyond. Our partnerships, like the one with Harlow College, ensure that local people can benefit from the airport’s continued success.”