Plans for Stansted Airport’s new arrivals hall have been met with general approval, but not without an airline raising an eyebrow at the cost.

Saffron Walden Reporter: An artist's impression of the new arrivals building planned at Stansted Airport, with the existing terminal to the left.An artist's impression of the new arrivals building planned at Stansted Airport, with the existing terminal to the left. (Image: Archant)

In a statement, budget airline Ryanair said it approved of the plans generally but stated “we do not agree with the excessive cost of these plans”.

The application is for a dedicated facility for all arriving passengers, an associated forecourt and altered access and service roads and will cost £130million.

Three levels are proposed for the new arrival hall, to facilitate arrivals from all regions, and the plans have so far been approved by sustainability groups such as Nature England and Stop Stansted Expansion, which has sought some reassurances over details such as lighting.

A planning officer has recommended Uttlesford District Council’s planning committee approves the proposal at its meeting on April 5, when it is due to rule on the scheme.