Hexham MP Guy Opperman has welcomed the support announced last week for Newcastle Airport. The airport is a vital transport hub for the Tyne Valley and the wider North East region, as well as supporting many local jobs. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has announced that Newcastle Airport will receive a Government grant of up to £8 million, helping to protect jobs and the local economy.
The funding will be equivalent to the Business Rates that the airport would otherwise have to pay – meaning that Newcastle Airport will pay nothing in Business Rates in 2020-21.
The funding, which will also be used to support ground handlers, comes as the Transport Secretary announced plans to reduce the time needed in self-isolation after travelling abroad. From 15 December, passengers returning from overseas will be given the option of having a coronavirus test after five days in isolation, with a negative test releasing them from the need to isolate for any longer.
Combined, the new funding and quarantine measures will give a much-needed boost to the aviation sector, which has faced a challenging year after passenger numbers severely declined during the coronavirus pandemic.
Guy Opperman MP said:
‘This additional funding support is good news for our local airport and will help protect jobs during these challenging times. Along with the Government’s new testing strategy, I hope that this funding marks a real turning point for Newcastle Airport – which supports so many jobs and businesses in our community.
‘In follow up to the announcement I am meeting with the Aviation Minister on Wednesday, along with my Northumberland colleague Anne Marie Trevelyan MP, to ensure the Government continues to do all it can in support of this vital regional asset.’
ENDS