Cargo hub plans cleared for take-off

A North East airport is advancing plans for a major logistics development that could create thousands of jobs and deliver a £165 million annual boost to the regional economy.

Newcastle International Airport is progressing proposals for AirLink, a 620,000sq ft logistics and cargo facility planned for land south of the runway. 

Bosses say the project is designed to support the airport’s growing freight operations and strengthen its role as a regional trade gateway.

They add the development would provide a base for cargo operators, freight forwarders and ground handling agents, and could become the only facility of its kind in the North East. 

Alice Andreasen, chief corporate affairs officer at Newcastle Airport, said: “AirLink is an exciting development that would deliver major benefits for the North East - creating thousands of jobs, generating millions for the economy and unlocking more investment opportunities.

“This development would also build on the significant contribution the Airport already makes to the regional economy - it already adds more than £1bn in Gross Value Added (GVA) each year and is one of the region’s largest employers with around 3,500 people onsite and a further 17,000 roles are supported through its supply chain.

“Since unveiling the plans last year, we’ve had positive and constructive conversations with residents, businesses and partners about the benefits that AirLink would bring and these will continue as we progress with the proposals.

“Newcastle Airport has made a strong commitment to invest in its cargo services to meet growing demand and AirLink has the potential to transform our operations even further, strengthening the region’s position as a leading cargo gateway.”

The facility is expected to support up to 1000 direct jobs on the airport site and a further 900 roles through supply chains and partner businesses.

Private property investment and development company Buccleuch Property, working with Argon Properties, has been selected as preferred developer.

The airport is continuing public consultation and discussions with potential occupiers and intends to submit a planning application soon.

Phil Witcherley, director of economic growth and innovation at the North East Combined Authority, added: “Newcastle Airport is a major regional asset and AirLink is exactly the type of development that would help drive further growth and investment in the region.

“With the potential to create thousands of new jobs, the facility would significantly strengthen the region’s logistics and supply chain capabilities and it sends a clear message that the North East is growing, ambitious and fit to compete on a global stage.”

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