Newcastle International Airport said a new cargo hub earmarked to be built at the airport could create thousands of jobs and boost the North East of England economy by up to £165 million a year.
The 750,000 sq ft site, which has been named AirLink, will serve as a key hub for cargo operators, freight forwarders and ground handling agents.
The development is being brought to market by the airport in conjunction with its commercial property partner Naylors Gavin Black.
The development is set to play a crucial role in supporting the airport’s growing cargo operations, which achieved a record high of handling over 6,000 tonnes in 2024.
The search for businesses to occupy AirLink is already underway. A planning application is due to be submitted later this year and the airport has a preferred developer for the site.
The site’s new name was unveiled at MIPIM — the four-day property and investment conference held in Cannes, France, which brings together key players in the real estate industry, including investors, developers and business officials.
AirLink was among several new development sites to be showcased at the event by the Airport, Newcastle City Council and Invest Newcastle.
The 49% stake in Newcastle International Airport owned by infrastructure investment firm InfraBridge may soon be sold, according to reports.
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), owner of Newcastle United FC, is thought to be among the interested parties. JP Morgan is overseeing the sale of the 49% stake.
Newcastle Airport is currently run as a Public Private Partnership between InfraBridge, a division of Florida-based alternative asset manager DigitalBridge, which has a 49% stake, and seven local authorities in the North East of England, who own 51%.
The local authorities are Durham County Council, Gateshead Council, Newcastle City Council, North Tyneside Council, Northumberland County Council, South Tyneside Council, and Sunderland City Council.
Keith Stewart, Partner at Naylors Gavin Black, said: “We are delighted to be working alongside Newcastle Airport to bring forward this exciting much needed development where units proposed from 8,000 sq. ft up to 170,000 sq. ft can be provided suitable for a variety of uses to include air freight, cargo, logistics and advanced manufacturing.
“Together with a delivery partner and aligning to the ambitions of the airport, we will be promoting the site and the opportunities available and MIPIM will be the start of that process.”
Alice Andreasen, Chief Sustainability and Communications Officer at Newcastle Airport, said: “AirLink is a landmark development that could create high-quality jobs, generate millions for the local economy and unlock new opportunities for businesses.
“Presenting this project at MIPIM has been an incredible opportunity to showcase the North East’s vast potential on a global stage and reinforce its status as a prime destination for investment.
“We look forward to working with Newcastle City Council to bring AirLink to life, further strengthening the region as a major hub for international trade and economic growth.”
Michelle Percy, Director of Investment and Growth at Newcastle City Council, said: “Newcastle Airport plays a central role in ensuring our city remains an attractive and accessible destination and the development of Airlink will provide a home for the ambitious, export-oriented businesses we are looking to bring to Newcastle.
“With the potential to create thousands of high-quality jobs, Airlink will strengthen the region’s logistics and supply chain capabilities, supporting key sectors such as advanced manufacturing and life sciences.”