Over 1,800 jobs are to be created over the coming 10 to 15 years, thanks to a £100m project at Manchester Airport. A new logistics hub will be built at the airport, close to the current cargo centre. The facility will offer a world-class service, attracting companies from all over the world.
A planning application has been submitted for the new centre, forming part of the project for the £650m Airport City. Freight companies will have access to 1.4m square feet of cargo space. In addition to the 1,800 jobs to be created, construction posts will become available, especially as it is hoped that construction on the project could start before the year end. By improving logistics facilities in the North West, airport chiefs believe that international trade will be improved by reduced transit times, efficient supply chains and access to a worldwide marketplace.
Manchester transported over 107,000 tonnes of mail and import and export freight in 2011 – the fourth busiest cargo airport to exist in the UK. Existing warehouse and office space is to be expanded to cope with projected growth. The new facility will be close to the current cargo centre and will feature about 1.5 million square feet of office space for Manchester and international clients, approximately 2,500 hotel beds, retail and leisure facilities, and advanced manufacturing. Areas will be landscaped specifically for natural habitats and wildlife. The leisure and retail facilities will create around 20,000 jobs during the next 15 years.
