Whitby wants Airport under local control

Jan 24 2007 By Paul Dale, Chief Reporter

the sale proves a success, BIA continues to prosper and we can advance the West Midlands as a world class destination.

"We look forward to talking with potential partners to ensure continued substantial investment and improvement in the airport to support the economic success of the region."

But Coun Whitby (Con Harborne) went much further: "My view is we should own the airport because it is of strategic relevance and drives growth not just in Birmingham but the region.

"It sustains more than 9,000 jobs and generates £220 million a year for the regional economy. It is a significant player.

"I am on record as saying the airport is a catalyst to the future of the region. It is imperative we can influence its future and the best way to gain influence is either by owning it or having a partner that understands exactly what we need. We have to look at this."

The seven councils already have a 49 per cent stake, having sold a controlling interest almost 20 years ago to avoid Government restrictions on capital expenditure.

Those no longer apply and there would be nothing to prevent the councils buying the Macquarie and DAA shares.

Sources close to Coun Whitby were suggesting last night a bid might be mounted even if agreement could not be reached among all seven. There would be nothing to prevent Birmingham joining forces with any of the councils interested, it was claimed.

The disposal by Macquarie and DAA has cast doubt on the business case for extending the runway and the possibility of a second runway by 2020. If the airport was returned to the public sector, the need to make a profit would not be so great allowing more margin for investment.

Coun Whitby said it was of "incredible importance" for the regional economy the runway extension was in place as soon as possible, allowing BIA to handle direct flights to India, China and the west coast of America.