First Minister sets up Cardiff Airport task force
28.03.12
Welsh First Minister Carwyn Jones is establishing a group to look at the future of Cardiff Airport, which he believes could overtake its nearest rival Bristol, Wales Online reports. Mr Jones, who called on Spanish owners Abertis to invest in the airport or sell twice in the last two weeks, will chair the group, which will also include representatives from local authorities, the private sector and the airport’s management.
Mr Jones also said that he is aware of interest from airport operators with a view to potentially seeking to acquire the airport, providing the price was ‘realistic.’ He said:: ‘The thing I am getting [from the airport] is that passenger numbers [falling] is the way things are going at regional airports so there is no ambition to improve the product. But I would like to see is the airport improving and getting more passengers and airlines in. We will work with them if there is an ambition to do that.’
On potential bidders for Cardiff, the First Minister said: ‘There are people out there who see investing in an airport as exceptionally worthwhile business. That is the impression we have had from the potential buyers. If Abertis aren’t able to come up with the capital, then my message is if they are prepared to sell it for a reasonable price, then let’s shake hands and move on and give somebody else the chance to come up the capital to develop the airport. What we cannot have is where nothing happens and there is no investment.’
‘There is more than one [interested party] and it is serious interest. It is a matter for those that have shown interest to come forward and negotiate with Abertis.’
For more information on this airport new story visit: http://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/2012/03/27/first-minister-carwyn-jones-says-new-group-can-ensure-cardiff-airport-overtakes-bristol-91466-30629425/#ixzz1qOhJThXD
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