Knock Airport welcome for increased funding commitment in Plan
IRELAND West Airport has welcomed the announcement by government of planned increased investment in the facility under the Project Ireland 2040 Plan. The plan was launched at IT Sligo last week.
The support is planned under the Regional Airport’s Programme for the overlay of the main runway and an apron safety extension as outlined in the National Development Plan 2018-2027.
The funding level has yet to be finalised as the application remains with the EU Commission for their consideration. However, the airport’s chairperson Joe Kennedy, said management is confident that with government’s support, funding at a 90% level can be obtained for both of these projects.
Mr Kennedy also acknowledged what he said is the government’s recognition of the airport as one of the four main airports in the country and its position as a critical driver of economic and tourism development for the west and north west of Ireland.
The facility’s designation as a Strategic Development Zone last year has also been highlighted as critical to the longterm development of the airport and the regional economy in the National Development Plan.
Mr Kennedy said: “We are pleased that the National Planning Framework highlights the Atlantic Economic Corridor initiative and recognises the significant role of Ireland West Airport in tourism and enterprise development, with the potential for further growth. taking into particular account of the airport’s designation as a Strategic Development Zone.
“We look forward to working with Government on the above investment projects in the coming months.
“This will support the airport’s future growth and development plans and also look forward to developing a comprehensive incentives programme for the zone to attract both new aviation related and commercial businesses to the airport.”