Carlisle airport to be developed by Stobart Air

A multi-million pound redevelopment of Carlisle Lake District Airport has been given the go-ahead.

City councillors approved plans by Stobart Air which they say will safeguard 800 jobs.

The £12.5m investment will see a 374,000 sq ft distribution hub built at the airport and other improvements to the airport infrastructure.

It is hoped the rental income from the hub will help fund upgrades to allow passenger flights to commence.

Part of the development will see the main runway raised and re-profiled.

Opposition to the development raised concerns about increased traffic, but supporters said passenger flights would boost tourism and attract further investment.

Stobart Group chief executive Andrew Tinkler said: "The decision is extremely positive for the people of Cumbria as it will drive the economy, boost tourism and safeguard over 800 direct and indirect jobs."