Coventry Airport denies interest in Ryton site
05.05.06
Coventry Airport chairman Bill Savage has denied rumours of plans to buy the site of Peugeot's Ryton plant.
There has been uncertainty over the future of the land since the French car manufacturer announced its plans to close the plant. Around 2300 jobs will be lost, including up to 1000 this summer, and villagers as well as those involved in the local economy are concerned at how the 143-acre site will be used.
Some believe the site could be used for airport parking or even a second runway for the Coventry hub - which would be in keeping with Warwickshire County Council's intention to keep the land for employment.
However, Mr Savage said that the airport is concentrating on building the terminal rather than on further expansion. He said: 'I can categorically assure your readers there are no plans for another runway. Our focus is on gaining planning permission for a new terminal building.'
Mr Savage believes Coventry Airport brings 'huge' economic benefits for the region, and the site, which is almost next door, is certain to be attractive. He forecasts the benefit will be mutual. The airport will attract high-tech developers and businesses to the vacant land, and these will in turn bring freight and trade to the Baginton site.
Former Peugeot workers may benefit from this, as Mr Savage believes their skills can easily be 'retuned' to adapt to the new jobs in high-tech manufacturing and light engineering.
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