Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen has today (12 January) told local businesses and tradespeople how they can play a crucial role in the overhaul of Teesside International Airport.
A total of 142 local firms from across the region joined the virtual event to find out how they can be part of the work.
Redevelopment of the airport’s terminal building is under way to get it ready for the increased number of passengers expected to come through the airport’s doors this summer, with the introduction of a number of new services, including low-cost carrier Ryanair.
A £3million revamp will see previously mothballed areas of the airport opened up, with a new check-in area opened, alongside a refitted security area with new bag and body scanners making it easier and quicker than ever to get checked in and to the departures gate.
The revamp also includes new food and drink options, with the creation of new bars, two renovated executive lounges, a coffee shop and the return of duty free, as well as refurbishment of other areas of the terminal.
Mayor Houchen was joined by Phil Forster, the airport’s Interim Managing Director, who highlighted the plans and the work available for local businesses to help deliver the vision. Work is available for experts including shop fitters, bar fitters, mechanical and electrical contractors, commercial kitchen installers, and much more.
Mayor Houchen said: “Ever since I brought our airport back into public ownership and saved it from closure, I’ve made it a priority for the airport to support local businesses and this is the latest and biggest opportunity for local firms to date.
“The coronavirus has had an unprecedented impact on businesses large and small and it’s now more important than ever to do all we can to support our fantastic companies and tradespeople at this difficult time, so we are encouraging as many as possible to bid for this work.
“It was great to be able to speak to so many firms and outline our huge plans for Teesside Airport and it was really encouraging to see just how many were interested in joining the project and playing a part in creating an airport we can all be proud of once again.
“We want our airport to work for local people on every level – creating jobs and keeping our money in Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool and in the pockets of local people, as well as delivering routes for holidaymakers and businesses. This expansion is just another way the airport’s working for everyone across the region.”
For more information on how businesses can bid to join the work, visit www.teessideinternational.com/procurement
