Prestwick closes in on big Heathrow deal

Airport hopes to land lucrative build and fly contract

Expansion of the UK’s biggest airport could involve Prestwick, it has emerged.

The Ayrshire base is in line to act as a logistics hub serving Heathrow.

Prestwick, one of ten Scottish sites to make a longlist, could be called upon to help the city giant’s expansion.

Four selected locations will make the cut, chosen to pre- assemble components of the expanded airport before transporting them in consolidated loads to Heathrow.

Stewart Adams, interim chief executive at Prestwick, said: “To reach the next stage of the selection process is a fantastic achievement and a significant step forward for the airport, our local authorities and many partners throughout Scotland.

“A logistics hub based in Ayrshire would be a catalyst for attracting investment and supporting extensive economic growth, not just regionally but on a national level.

“We are very proud of our bid to be Scotland’s logistics hub and look forward to progressing to the next stage of the process.”

South Ayrshire Council leader, Douglas Campbell, said it was “no surprise” to see Prestwick making the longlist of potential sites.

He added: “This announcement confirms the vital role Prestwick can play in supporting the UK economy and gives further impetus to our case for an Ayrshire Growth Deal which has – at its heart – the development of a world- class aerospace and space hub at Prestwick.

“I urge the Chancellor to give this keen consideration in the coming days so we can see a commitment to an Ayrshire Growth Deal in his Budget Statement on November 22.

Heathrow’s expansion is the first major infrastructure project in the UK to pioneer the large- scale use of logistics hubs for the third runway.

The project is expected to lead to new jobs in every corner of the UK.

Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Jobs and Fair Work, Keith Brown, said: “Expansion