Manchester airport has announced a 10-year transformation programme.
The £1 billion investment will be a series of 60 enhancements at the UK’s third largest airport, which includes the expansion of Terminal 2, US pre-clearance and self-service check-in.
Manchester Airports Group (MAG) said the programme will play a key role in delivering a Northern Powerhouse – Chancellor George Osborne’s plan to rebalance the UK economy which he said London currently dominates.
Charlie Cornish CEO of MAG said: “Today, we’re setting out how the airport will contribute to the development of a Northern Powerhouse and demonstrating the dynamic, can-do spirit that sums up the region.
“The Transformation Programme will ensure Manchester Airport plays its full part in driving economic growth and develops as a key part of the UK transport infrastructure, within a nationwide network of competing airports.”
The work will also include improvements to Terminal 3, new food and retail outlets and better departure gate facilities.
The announcement was welcomed by Osborne who said the investment represents a “massive vote of confidence” in the North of England and in a plan to build a Northern Powerhouse.
“The investment, which will completely transform Manchester Airport and double its capacity, will help ensure that it continues to compete with global airports across the world,” said Osborne.
“It will play a key role in this one nation government’s plan to rebalance the UK economy and boost productivity and is fantastic news for working people across the North.”
Manchester airport offers direct routes to a host of global destinations including Miami, Hong Kong, Jeddah, Singapore and Washington.