Heathrow expansion to 'open doors' for firms
SuppliedA technology boss has said closer ties with the UK's busiest airport "will open doors" for local businesses ahead of controversial plans to add a third runway.
Sunderland-based technology company CC-Informatics attended a regional business summit at St James' Park in Newcastle, inviting small to medium sized enterprises to work with Heathrow to grow their businesses.
Organisers said more than £1bn was available annually for firms to tap into and the event offered a "potential springboard to new opportunities".
CC-Informatics director Mark Cramman said: "We're trying to grow and anything that can make it easier to work outside the UK would be good."
Speaking at the event on Thursday, Cramman, whose company develops robotics and AI and employs five staff, said it was "nice to see a company like Heathrow coming up here and trying reach out and support local northern businesses".
"Having the ability to get to places easier and more efficiently will open doors. We need to grow, hopefully we can get some exporting opportunities," he added.
Heathrow Airport spokesman Nigel Milton said the event was about sharing their plan with the 100 SMEs who attended before asking them what they wanted from the airport.
SuppliedMilton said: "The north west and Heathrow Airport have a close relationship already, but this will take it to the next level.
"There are great businesses and talent here – an opportunity to tap into what Newcastle has got to offer - it's a two way thing."
He said the airport had spent £1bn annually on UK-wide supply chains and their plan was to double the investment over the next five years. He said £3bn to £4bn would be invested annually when construction starts [on the expansion].
Newcastle MP Dame Chi Onwurah said: "Now that the expansion is looking to go ahead we have to make sure it reaps the benefits.
"Building those markets so our fantastic businesses have customers in the country and around the world is important.
"There is an opportunity with construction and connectivity. I don't want Newcastle to be just the hidden jewel."
SuppliedShe said for local residents it should mean more likelihood of key jobs in construction and cyber security, and more chance of being able to connect with the rest of the world.
The MP added "I recognise there has been doubt over the Heathrow expansion. They have taken steps to understand the climate and economics and it's more of a project for the country."
North East Chamber of Commerce chief executive John McCabe said: "People heard how businesses can get involved and thrive.
"Investment in Heathrow can help drive the economy in the North East - it's better regionally for all of us."
Heathrow Airport's plan for a third runway has faced opposition from environmental groups, politicians, and local residents with concerns over increased noise and air pollution.
