Airport development would be a major boost to regeneration says report
The development of London Ashford Airport (Lydd) would bring major economic benefits to Shepway, says a new report, which identifies the region as the third most deprived district in Kent.
The Socio-Economic Update, prepared by one of the UK's largest independent planning consultancies, shows that Lydd has the fifth highest unemployment rate of the 22 wards in Shepway, with the number of people claiming unemployment-related benefits in January 2009 up almost 70% on the previous year. Unemployment figures for Romney Marsh over the same period were up by more than 108%.
The airport's managing director, Cliff Spink, said: "This report, along with figures released this week showing that unemployment has risen by a further 200 in Shepway, highlights the desperate need for economic regeneration and job creation in the region."
The report also reveals that less than 23% of the working-age population in Shepway has qualifications at NVQ level 4 and above, compared to 30.8% in the South East. It goes on to say that the airport has the potential to make a ‘significant contribution' to training and improving skills - two of the region's key regeneration and economic development priorities.
The airport is ‘clearly committed' to employing local people and exploring new programmes that would benefit the community, such as construction training, recruitment initiatives and engineering apprenticeships, the report adds.
Peter Hobbs, chief executive of the Channel Chamber of Commerce, said that allowing London Ashford Airport to grow and prosper would provide a massive boost to the economy of Shepway and East Kent.
Responding to the report, he said: "Our region is really suffering during this recession and many businesses are struggling to keep their heads above water. Investment and jobs are under pressure and we need to see major projects like the development of LAA go ahead.
"To borrow a phrase from Bill Clinton's successful 1992 presidential campaign - it's the economy, stupid! The expansion of LAA will help create jobs and act as a catalyst for the economic regeneration of a whole region. This report shows how this project can make a real difference and we should grab this opportunity with both hands," added Mr Hobbs.
The development of the airport would also have a positive impact on tourism in Shepway and beyond, says the report. With LAA handling 500,000 passengers a year, it's estimated that around 12,500 extra tourists a year could be flocking to the region, generating up to an additional £3million in revenue for the local and surrounding areas.
For further information about LAA, visit www.lydd-airport.co.uk.
Source:Edwards Harvey
