Airport expansion plans discussed

Development of the airport could help boost Cornwall's economy

Ambitious proposals for the future of Newquay Airport are to be debated by Restormel councillors later.

Up to £200m could be invested in a new terminal, aviation training centre and business park under the plan for the airport's development up to 2030.

It is hoped the changes would result in passenger numbers rising by 400%, to more than 1.4m a year.

A 10-week publication consultation being held into the draft plans is due to end on 23 January.

It is believed the proposals would help transform the county's economy by creating new jobs and improving connections for Cornish businesses.

Under the proposals, hangars would be built and refurbished to attract aircraft maintenance and aircraft recycling businesses.

The proposals aim to create a thriving, commercially successful regional airport Andrew Mitchell Cornwall County Council

A four-star hotel and a conference and exhibition centre would also be built.

The plan also includes provision for improved public transport, more parking spaces and car hire and support services, including in-flight catering and cargo.

However, a number of studies would have to be carried out before the plan could be approved.

These include an environmental management strategy and a carbon impact study, as well as an appraisal of economic benefits.

Andrew Mitchell, Cornwall County Council's economy portfolio holder, said: "The proposals aim to create a thriving, commercially successful regional airport which is the focal point for a major strategic employment area and a key driver of the whole Cornish economy.

"Given the county's peripheral location within Europe and the long surface travel times to other major cities within the UK, the availability of good air services is, if anything, even more important to Cornwall.

"This is especially the case if it is to attract the high value tourism, knowledge-based businesses and inward investment that are the key to a prosperous economic future."