Plans to turn land near East Midlands Airport (EMA) into a new hi-tech logistics and manufacturing park as part of the East Midlands Freeport have taken a major step forward.
MAG (Manchester Airports Group), which owns and operates EMA, has submitted a planning application to North West Leicestershire District Council detailing the proposals for a site just south of the A453 alongside the airport.
If approved, the development could result in more than 2,000 new jobs once fully operational and employ up to 174 people during a two-year construction period.
It is estimated the new development could contribute up to £132m per year in GVA (Gross Value Added), to the East Midlands economy along with almost £9m in additional annual business rates contributions.
EMA’s managing director Steve Griffiths said: “This is a prime site for a development of this kind, given its proximity to major road and rail networks and the UK’s number one express air cargo hub.
“Given its status as a Freeport tax site, we are confident that if approved, we will have little difficulty in attracting businesses, bringing much-needed jobs to the region during its construction and operation.
“The proposals we have submitted to the council outline how we have carefully considered the opportunities and constraints of the site, seeking to strike the balance between the need for such a development against the potential impact on the environment and local residents.
“We have met and will continue to meet members of Diseworth Parish Council and community groups and have aimed to address their concerns in our proposals.”
IMAGE CREDIT: EMA
