Keighley and Ilkley MP Robbie Moore has welcomed the announcement made by Transport Secretary Grant Shapps MP that Leeds Bradford Airport is now able to apply for a Government grant worth up to £8 million, helping to protect jobs and the local economy across Keighley and Ilkley and the wider Yorkshire region.
The Airport and Ground Operators Support Scheme, which opened on Friday 29 January, will help Leeds Bradford Airport, and other commercial airports across England to cover losses on costs caused by the covid-19 pandemic, including airfield operations, contracted services such as airfield and runway maintenance, and business rate bills.
Airports and ground handlers can apply to the scheme on GOV.UK, and if successful, should receive their funding by the end of the financial year.
The financial support scheme, which follows the Government’s extension of the Job Retention Scheme, is open for applications until 21 February 2021.
This investment will help support Leeds Bradford Airport following the introduction of international travel restrictions designed to protect public health and prevent the spread of Covid-19 as the Government continues to roll out its world leading vaccination programme.
In 2018, Leeds Bradford Airport’s economic impact was estimated at £475m, supporting almost 7,200 jobs.
Commenting, Robbie Moore said: “I am thrilled that Leeds Bradford Airport will receive up to £8 million to help it protect jobs during these challenging times.
“This funding offers vital support for Leeds Bradford Airport – which supports so many jobs and businesses in our community and the wider Yorkshire area.
“This Government has provided unprecedented levels of support to protect jobs and businesses through the pandemic, and this latest support will be hugely important for helping Keighley and Ilkley to build back better after coronavirus.”
Commenting, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “A thriving aviation industry has been central to the success of this country and while we recognise the testing conditions airports are currently facing as a result of the pandemic, I believe that the sector will be ready to bounce back once restrictions are lifted.
“Today’s scheme is another step in the right direction, providing vital support for an industry that is raring to get back to business, once it is safe to do so.”
