Mmeman you ve hit the nail on the head exactly.
Teesside are showing it as something to be repaid and hopefully it will over time but as you say the money was there to be invested and Ben was elected originally with the promise of buying the airport, which he did. He was subsequently re elected!
Teesside haven't had anymore than the northern neighbour from the taxpayer so to speak!
The employment benefits are good for everyone as the airport provides many well paid jobs and hopefully this will increase, benefiting the whole region.