Manchester Airports Group welcomes Government commitment to Northern Powerhouse Rail
The Government’s plans for Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR) have been backed to maximise the impact Manchester Airport's connectivity and investment has on the regional economy.
Plans unveiled by the Treasury have confirmed a new station will be delivered at Manchester Airport as part of NPR. The high speed rail network is being placed at the heart of a strategy to drive growth in the North.
The station at Manchester Airport will help unlock the full potential of its existing two runways, stimulating jobs, trade, investment and tourism in all parts of the North. It will enhance the positive impact delivered through MAG's £1.3bn Transformation Programme, which will conclude this year.
Ken O'Toole, MAG CEO, said:
"This is a welcome and long overdue step towards the creation of a highly productive and internationally competitive Northern growth corridor.
"By placing Manchester Airport at the heart of a full Northern Powerhouse Rail Network, people and businesses across the region will have the direct access they deserve to the world.
"That will help high-value industries to thrive and attract investors and visitors to all parts of the North - maximising the region's contribution to national growth.
"The project will deliver the public investment needed to ensure the north benefits fully from MAG's £1.3bn transformation of Manchester Airport. It will unlock the full capacity of Manchester's existing two full-length runways - capacity that is available now.
"That is why we look forward to working with Government and regional partners on ways to deliver NPR at the earliest possible opportunity."