And I Quote
Green light for Birmingham expansion
April 16, 2009
Solihull Council has given the go-ahead to extend the runway at Birmingham International Airport by 400 metres, The Birmingham Mail reports.
The decision will allow the airport to add new long-haul services to destinations in Asia and North America, significantly benefiting the local economy.
In addition to expanding the airport’s route network, councillors said local businesses will receive an “immediate boost” from new development contracts.
okay it's not a new station..but look at the money!!!
What’s more, the upgrade comes as Network Rail released funds for the £600 million New Street Station project – one of the West Midlands’ largest ever transport upgrades.
Peter Mathews, president of Black Country Chamber of Commerce, told The Birmingham Mail that both projects would have a positive impact on “regional confidence and the economy,” creating hundreds of jobs in the design and construction sector. “But we’ll see the real benefits once it is completed,” he added. “With the West Midlands having greater and easier access to the rest of the world, there will be real benefits to international trade.”
Solihull Council also pledged to limit night-time flights and minimise noise pollution levels, in recognition of concerns raised by environmental campaigners.