Stobart given green light for Carlisle Airport scheme

PROPERTY and logistics group Stobart has been given approval by Carlisle City Council to go ahead with a £20m+ expansion at the city’s airport.

The listed group has been battling local opposition for more than three years to push ahead with the development plan which includes the construction of a 374,000 sq ft distribution centre at its Carlisle Lake District Airport.

The planning application will also require the raising and re-profiling of the main runway at the site.

Group chief executive Andrew Tinkler said: “The decision is extremely positive for the people of Cumbria as it will drive the economy, boost tourism and safeguard over 800 direct and indirect jobs.

“The freight distribution centre will allow Eddie Stobart to attract new clients while providing the rental income required to develop Carlisle Airport and commence passenger operations.

“Additional Group revenue streams will be realised as we link Carlisle and Southend airports to give passengers seamless connections to Europe.”

Meanwhile Stobart has ended its sponsorship deal with rugby league’s flagship Super League competition after just one year.

Mr Tinkler said: “The plan was always to review the partnership after the first year and we’ve decided to step back and allow the RFL to work with commercial partners that can offer the financial support it needs to further develop.

“As such both parties have mutually agreed to end the collaboration at the close of the season.”