Stansted Airport and its future is on hold following a decision to turn down a proposed expansion by the local (Uttlesford) council. This would have increased capacity from the current (and virtually reached) 25m to 35m. In the pipeline are further plans to add a second runway bringing the throughput up to 55m. A statement from the council indicated concerns regarding noise pollution, air quality and climate change. BAA, owned by Spain's Ferrovial said it would appeal against the decision which was welcomed by environmental groups and challenged by those interested in local employment and commercial development.