Chamber reaction to LBA withdrawing planning application

Mike Briffet, President of Leeds Chamber of Commerce, said:

“It’s disappointing but understandable that this decision has been taken.  The increasing uncertainty around future investment could not continue indefinitely, and we fully sympathise with the airport’s dilemma in having to decide the best course of action. This was a significant opportunity, using private sector investment to upgrade and improve the region’s airport, and in the process deliver a new, world leading, net zero carbon terminal worthy of the people of Yorkshire

“We were promised an end to ‘dither and delay’ by this Government and yet the decision over LBA has been sitting on the desk of the Secretary of State for twelve months. Following the hugely disappointing Integrated Rail Plan it really brings into question just how serious this Government is about its ‘Levelling Up’ agenda. Here was a scheme that would have directly fed into the Government’s Levelling Up ‘missions’ including on productivity, investment, transport, employment and regeneration.

“As ever, we fully support Leeds Bradford Airport, and stand ready to work closely with them on any future plans they have.”