East Midlands Airport Aims to Skyrocket Cargo Capacity with New Development Plans
East Midlands Airport (EMA) has unveiled ambitious plans to transform its surrounding land into a bustling hub for cargo operations, aiming to create over 20,000 jobs and significantly boost the UK's freight capacity. The initiative, presented at the UKREiiF real estate investment forum in Leeds, outlines the development of four key sites totaling more than 50 hectares. These developments are poised to enhance EMA's position as the UK's leading express air freight hub, catering to a projected 54% surge in demand over the next two decades.
The proposed developments include the construction of new taxiways and additional aircraft parking spaces, alongside substantial warehouse and yard spaces. Two of the sites benefit from tax incentives as part of the East Midlands Freeport, offering businesses simplified customs processes and financial advantages. This strategic move is expected to not only expand EMA's operational capacity but also to inject billions into the local economy, with projections indicating up to £3.9bn in additional Gross Value Added (GVA) by 2043.
Steve Griffiths, managing director of EMA, emphasized the airport's critical role in supporting the UK's advanced manufacturing and high-value industries. 'Our analysis shows significant potential for growth in the coming years,' Griffiths stated. 'By enhancing our cargo infrastructure, we're not just expanding our operations; we're laying the groundwork for tens of thousands of jobs and bolstering UK trade on a global scale.'
The airport is now inviting expressions of interest from developers to explore the full potential of these sites. With an open mind towards development proposals and investment mechanisms, EMA is set to embark on a transformative journey that promises to redefine the landscape of air freight in the UK. This initiative marks a pivotal step in ensuring the airport's capacity meets future demands, securing its status as a cornerstone of the UK's logistics and trade infrastructure.
