Scots airports set for ‘major transformation' after £350million boost
AIR WE GO Scots airports set for 'major transformation' after £350million boost
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PLANS have been unveiled for the "major transformation" of a Scots airport following a £350million cash injection.
The investment, by Glasgow Airport owner AviAlliance, will include a refit of the main terminal building, "delivering best in class operational and retail facilities" for passengers.
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Plans have been unveiled for the "major transformation" of Glasgow Airport
Credit: AGS
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The cash will be used to refurbish the main terminal building
Credit: Les Gallagher
AviAlliance also said the initiative will include direct investment in airfield infrastructure and energy efficiency initiatives.
The firm completed the acquisition of AGS Airports in January in a deal worth £1.53billion.
It's hoped the changes will "significantly enhance" the passenger experience.
Meanwhile Aberdeen Airport, which is Europe's largest heliport, will see similar investment in its airfield infrastructure.
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And Southampton Airport, which completed its 164-metre runway extension in 2023, will undergo redevelopment works.
AGS supports more than 30,000 jobs and generates in excess of £2billion in Gross Value Added (GVA) for the UK economy every year.
Alongside the cash boost, AviAlliance confirmed the appointment of Charles Hammond OBE as the new chair, who stepped down as Chief Executive of Forth Ports in 2024 after holding the position for 23 years.
Kam Jandu, Chief Executive of AGS Airports, said: 'AGS plays a critical role in driving economic and social prosperity across Scotland and the UK. We have ambitious plans for the long-term, sustainable growth of our airports including the strengthening of our connectivity which underpins the success of the regions we serve.
"This significant investment will not only enhance the fabric of our airports, it will enhance the role they currently play in facilitating trade and tourism, and, importantly in generating meaningful employment across the country.
"We are also delighted to welcome Charles on board as our new Chair. He is joining at what is a very exciting time for AGS and his unrivalled experience will prove invaluable as we work to unlock the next chapter in the group's growth."
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Gerhard Schroeder, Managing Director of AviAlliance, said: "AviAlliance takes a long-term view across all the airports within our portfolio and this investment will assist AGS in accelerating its plans for delivering a superior passenger experience and growing connectivity. We are looking forward to working with AGS' regional and national partners over the coming years to realise the full and undoubted potential of Aberdeen, Glasgow and Southampton airports.'
Charles Hammond OBE, Chair of AGS Airports, said: "It is an absolute privilege to have been appointed Chair of AGS. I know Aberdeen, Glasgow and Southampton airports very well and I am also well aware of the critical role they play as drivers of regional economic growth across the UK.
"With the £350million investment from our new shareholders now confirmed, I am relishing the opportunity of working with the AGS board, Kam and his executive team, to ensure AGS can play an even greater role in supporting our regions to boost trade and tourism."
Deputy First Minister of Scotland Kate Forbes said: "This significant investment in Scotland by AGS will bring incredible benefits through improved infrastructure at both Glasgow and Aberdeen airports, and to our wider economy.
"Good international connectivity is key to economic growth in Scotland. It enables flow of trade, investment, labour and tourism, which will contribute to our prosperity. Additionally, the commitment to sustainability is welcome as we progress towards a net zero future."
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