Manufacturers’ group chooses sides in airport capacity debate

MANUFACTURERS are backing an expansion of additional capacity at Heathrow airport, believing it to be the best strategic fit for the manufacturing sector and the best option to secure a better balanced economy.
 
The call comes on the back of a survey published today by EEF, the manufacturers’ organisation and ahead of next Tuesday’s deadline for the Airport Commission’s final consultation on options for airport expansion.

Leeds Bradford Airport has previously backed Heathrow Airport’s expansion plans as the “best proposal for the country”.
 
Andy Tuscher, Yorkshire and Humber region director at EEF, said: “Expansion at Heathrow is clearly the best option for business and the country overall. It soars ahead of all other options in terms of frequency of flights, range of destinations and ease of access. Manufacturers believe it is best to build on this success.
 
“Airport capacity is critical to industry for exporting and, ultimately, for the UK economy. The Airports Commission has tackled this issue through a detailed process with extensive consultation and its final recommendation demands full support from Government. Our economy cannot wait any longer and we now need spades in the ground as soon as possible.”
 
According to the survey, 79% of companies backed Heathrow expansion with a preference for Heathrow in every English region and Wales, as well as for every sector and company size.

When asked to choose from a range of options about why Heathrow expansion is preferable, 77% chose frequency of flights, 75% the range of destinations and 44% timing of flights.

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