Robinson and McGuinness welcome £10million investment for international airport

First Minister Rt Hon Peter D Robinson MP MLA and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness MP MLA have welcomed today’s announcement by Belfast International Airport that it is to invest £10million in improving facilities at the airport.

The investment will see major construction work get underway to update and improve facilities throughout the terminal.

Speaking at the announcement the Ministers said the investment would not only greatly enhance the experience of the five million passengers who use Belfast International Airport each year but also send a signal to other potential investors.

Mr McGuinness said: “This investment of £10million whilst our economy is in a recession should be recognised as an investment for the future. It is a sure sign that Belfast International Airport is positioning itself to take full advantage of the opportunities that will arise when the local economy starts to grow again and prosperity improves. BIA may be leading the way but I have no doubt that other investors will quickly follow suit.

Mr Robinson said: “The Executive remains determined that Northern Ireland is a region that can compete on the global stage and attract significant inward investment. The first consideration most investors have concerns the quality of our transport infrastructure. Today’s announcement coupled with redevelopment projects at two of our other local airports I believe puts us well ahead of our competitors.”

The privately-funded project will see the relocation of central security search to the departures concourse which will significantly to speed up passengers’ journeys through the airport. This will be followed by the construction of a new two-storey glass facade at the front of the terminal which will accommodate new lifts, stairs and escalators to reach the departures concourse and a reconfiguration of the duty free area, creating space for over 20 retail, food and beverage outlets.

The development is scheduled to be complete by summer 2010 and brings to over £35million the total amount invested in the airport in the last five years as part of an ongoing commitment to transform the look and feel of the airport and enhance customer experience.

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