The Governor of the Bank of England, Andrew Bailey, visited Southampton Airport on Friday 11 October to discuss the vital role the airport plays in driving the economic and social prosperity of Eastleigh, Southampton, and the wider Central South region.
Southampton Airport’s Managing Director, Gavin Williams, welcomed Mr Bailey and provided him with a tour of the airport including the £17m runway extension which was officially opened in September last year.
The Governor heard how the runway extension has helped deliver improved connectivity and unlocked opportunities for business and leisure travel, while guaranteeing the airport’s future. Since the completion of the extension, airlines including Eastern Airways, KLM and easyJet have all added new routes and Mr Bailey’s visit comes ahead of the launch of easyJet’s new Amsterdam service on 28 October.
Mr Bailey also received an update on the Solent Freeport which will unlock billions of pounds’ worth of investment, create tens of thousands of new jobs across important coastal communities. It will create 30,100 new skilled and semi-skilled jobs including 15,050 direct jobs in the Solent and 15,050 in the wider UK supply chain.
A key component of the Freeport is the Navigator Quarter which will be one million square feet of prime real estate to the north and north-east of Southampton Airport’s runway. This will offer businesses new opportunities for growth and expansion creating thousands of jobs.
Gavin Williams, Managing Director of Southampton Airport, said: “It is well established that a region with strong connectivity will enjoy increased levels of trade and tourism. It was a real pleasure to welcome Mr Bailey to the airport to set out the important role we play in supporting the Central South region and the huge opportunities presented by the Solent Freeport and Navigator Quarter. These initiatives will be pivotal in attracting further foreign direct investment to region and with it significant and meaningful employment opportunities.”
Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey said: “It was pleasure to be able to tour Southampton Airport and learn more how they have responded to a number of challenges over the past few years.
“Through our network of Agents, the Bank of England is able to gather real insight into all sectors of the economy across the UK. But it is also invaluable, as was the case today, being able to see firsthand how businesses in areas like Eastleigh, Southampton, and the wider Central South region are looking forward with real ambition.”
