Alliance Infrastructure spokesperson Kellie Armstrong MLA has welcomed the announcement that a third runway is to be developed at Heathrow airport.
Kellie Armstrong said: “Much has been written and said about the need for greater airport capacity around London. I recently wrote to the Prime Minister urging approval for a third runway at Heathrow and am delighted that has now been given.
“Although Heathrow is in London, it is the UK’s hub airport. Other countries are investing in and supporting their hub, or looking on enviously as they hub through other countries. Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales all have our own successful and growing airports. But Heathrow is our gateway to the world, bringing tourists to our attractions and helping our exporters reach new markets. Whether we are connected by road, rail or air, we know that connections to Heathrow are a key driver of investment decisions.
“Expanding Heathrow will create nearly four times more jobs in our three nations than other options being considered. Heathrow expansion is important for each of our nations remaining open, outward-looking, and trading globally. While it may be some time before construction actually begins I would hope companies from Northern Ireland will be able to win some of the contracts in this exciting development.”