Gateway airport project to create 8,000 jobs

Work has started on a multi-million pound business park next to Belfast International Airport which could create up to 8,000 jobs in the next 15 years.

The ambitious project is currently underway to build the first business units of the ‘Gateway at Belfast International Airport’ and in total 100 acres will be transformed.

Offices, warehouses, new freight handling facilities and possibly a second airport hotel will be created.

The airport’s managing director, John Doran, said: “The significance of Gateway cannot be underestimated.

“It is both an investment in the future of the economy of Northern Ireland and the wider economy as a whole.

“The location offers businesses access to a growing number of direct air routes to Europe and North America, but because the airport – being one of Northern Ireland’s most significant economic assets – is the natural and sensible choice for expanding, forward-thinking businesses.”

The airport is also currently in talks with transport company Translink and the government in attempts to create a rail link to the terminal.

Douglas Wheeler, partner at commercial property consultants BTWShiells, sole agents for gateway, said: “We are delighted at being chosen as sole agents for this unique development.

“A high calibre state-of-the-art development in a sought after location, Gateway has already aroused much interest from a wide range of businesses wishing to capitalise on what is a one-off opportunity.”

(JM/KMcA)