Business Backs City of Derry Airport

Business Backs City Airport
Belfast Telegraph, UK

23 February 2004 


BUSINESS interests in the North-West have indicated
their support for City of Derry airport and the need
to build investment in a regional asset that brings
benefits to the local economy.

Tony McGurk, chief executive of Derry City Council,
said the support from the business community was
essential for the growth of the airport. 

He said: "In addition to the business travellers using
our regular scheduled services to London, Glasgow and
Dublin, the airport enjoys more than 4,500 passengers
travelling on corporate and business aircraft with
many European and North American companies using the
airport to access local business in the region.

"Local businesses, both large and small, have gained
important access to the North-West for their customers
and suppliers, bringing the region into the global
marketplace.

"Businesses have indicated that the existence of the
airport is an important factor in their investment
decision. They say it has a role in attracting inward
and outward investment and recognise its importance as
a key economic driver for the North-West region."

Mr McGurk added that investment in the airport would
deliver a facility capable of landing larger aircraft
and more passengers. 

This would improve access to and from the North-West
region, help develop the economic regeneration of the
region, generate additional consumer spend, support
more than 200 direct and indirect jobs, and add an
integral piece of infrastructure to the regional
gateway lands to underpin the area's ability to
operate as a strategic employment location.

Niall Birthistle, speaking on behalf of the
Londonderry Chamber of Commerce, said members of the
Chamber were keen to provide their support for growth
at City of Derry Airport. 

"Growth at the City of Derry Airport is essential for
the region to prosper and expand as a centre for
employment and investment. It creates links and
opportunities and brings confidence to business and
investors who are looking for a forward looking region
in which to do business." 

The council's website now has a dedicated facility to
the airport. It provides up-to-date information on the
proposed strategic investment and frequently asked
questions. 

More information on the airport development can be
found on www.derrycity.gov.uk/airport.


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