A major 750,000 sq. ft. cargo facility earmarked for construction at Newcastle Airport in the UK has officially been named AirLink. The site will serve as a key hub for cargo operators, freight forwarders and ground handling agents and is expected to boost the North East economy by up to GBP 165 million a year.
The search for businesses to occupy the cargo hub is underway with the airport’s commercial property partner Naylors Gavin Black tasked with bringing the development to market and finding new tenants, while Newcastle City Council is working with the airport to bring AirLink to life.
“AirLink is a landmark development that could create high-quality jobs, generate millions for the local economy and unlock new opportunities for businesses,” said Alice Andreasen, Chief Sustainability and Communications Officer at Newcastle Airport.
The proposed cargo hub is expected to generate up to 1,400 direct jobs and 1,200 additional roles once built, with Andreasen noting that it will “strengthen the region as a major hub for international trade and economic growth.”
Michelle Percy, Director of Investment and Growth at Newcastle City Council added, “Newcastle Airport plays a central role in ensuring our city remains an attractive and accessible destination and the development of AirLink will provide a home for the ambitious, export-oriented businesses we are looking to bring to Newcastle.
“With the potential to create thousands of high-quality jobs, AirLink will strengthen the region’s logistics and supply chain capabilities, supporting key sectors such as advanced manufacturing and life sciences.”
Located south of the airport’s runway, AirLink will provide direct apron access enabling cargo to be loaded and unloaded swiftly and efficiently from aircraft, making it ideal for businesses handling time-sensitive shipments, such as pharmaceuticals.
Image source: Newcastle Airport.
