Steve Brine visited Southampton International Airport on Wednesday 9th October to understand their plans for expansion on behalf of his constituents, particularly those living to the south of Winchester.
The Winchester & Chandler’s Ford MP pressed home that, while he recognised that Eastleigh Borough Council is the planning authority, any plans must fully involve Winchester City Council and its’ elected members.
Steve Brine said: “At present Southampton Airport is every day watching potential customers go past its front door all the way into London to fly back over its head. This is not about creating more demand, it’s about giving people locally some choice and developing the regional economy at the same time.
“I was grateful to Neil Garwood and his team for briefing me on the emerging planning application and keen to make the point that Winchester must be every bit as central to the process as Eastleigh because my constituents are clearly involved.
“It was also a chance to discuss the future of electric, and hybrid electric, planes which is a fast developing technology and something I am really interested in.”
Southampton Airport Managing Director Neil Garwood said: “Our vision is for Southampton Airport to provide the best possible connectivity for local people, and avoid many of those needless car journeys on congested roads to the busy London airports.
“We are looking to build a brighter future for our region through sustainable growth and will have a team of experts on hand to speak to residents of Winchester and the surrounding villages at the drop-in session on October 29.”
There are a series of drop-in events for local residents, as below.
Tuesday, October 22 18:30–20:30 Holiday Inn, Leigh Road, Eastleigh
Thursday, October 24 18:30–20:30 Bitterne Park School
Saturday, October 26 10:00–12:00 Southampton Airport
Tuesday, October 29 18:30–20:30 Shawford Village Hall, Winchester
Pictured; Steve Brine MP with MD Neil Garwood at SIA.
