17.11.05
Reaction to MoD RAF St Mawgan announcement

Carleen Kelemen, Director of the Objective One Partnership, said: "The commercial side of RAF St Mawgan, Newquay Cornwall Airport, represents a golden opportunity to bring more wealth to the region. There is a strong and continuing commitment within both private and public sectors to the retention and expansion of this commercial airport. As far as the Partnership is concerned this commitment has recently been demonstrated by the investment of more than £1.2 million from the Objective One European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). This substantial investment is being used for expansion and improvements.

"The airport is one of many elements that are essential to giving businesses the edge in a global economy. Other communication elements, which Objective One has also been investing in, include the main Cornwall to London railway line and the IT infrastructure.

"Objective One has also invested in the Combined Universities in Cornwall and the Knowledge Spa, part of the region's new medical school and there is a need for fast and efficient communication between these institutions and businesses around the world. As well as bringing more tourism to the region a commercial airport makes this possible."

Thelma Sorensen, chair of the Cornwall Business Partnership, said: "I am convinced that a commercial airport is essential if Cornwall is to be able to expand and compete with others worldwide. I and others will continue to work long and hard to ensure the survival and welcome expansion of Newquay Cornwall Airport as a commercial concern."

John McCreadie, director of independent economic consultants Ekos Consulting UK Ltd, backed this up at conference in Cornwall earlier this year. He said: "Airports are a major driver for an economy and Cornwall is very fortunate to have both a new university and an airport. That (Newquay) airport is one of the key assets for Cornwall and the evidence for spin off jobs is really powerful. There are more internal than international flights from Newquay however international flights give people added choice and save time and fuel consuming journeys to Bristol, Birmingham and London."

For further information please contact Clare Morgan of the Objective One Communications Team on 01872 223439 or email: cmorgan@cornwall.gov.uk.

Editor's notes:

Clare Morgan
Media Relations Manager
Objective One Partnership Office
Castle House
Pydar Street
Truro TR1 2UD
Mobile: 07973 813647
Telephone: 01872 223439

cmorgan@cornwall.gov.uk

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