Bagso ... Your link to 'Wales Online' is another excellent find.
The fact that two rail routes, each offering compelling cases, should have to compete for access to Manchester Airport's global network is quite revealing.
With the conversation above concerning infrastructure investment in mind, it is apropos to point out that linking the Chester - Altrincham line to Manchester Airport Station would open up Chester and North Wales directly to MAN's worldwide flights, whilst continuing to afford those businesses and residents along the Calder Valley corridor the same advantage.
Yet another example, if it were needed, of how relatively modest infrastructure investment directly into this region (compared to costs for LHR R3 and Crossrail 2) could revitalise global access to the North Wales economy. All whilst still accommodating the same opportunity for Calder Valley (Bradford, Halifax, Rochdale).
EDIT: A poster on another site has just posted a link to an article published by the 'Hull Daily Mail'. This reports on a campaign by Hull City Council to require the new Transpennine rail franchisee to offer frequent through-trains between Hull and Manchester Airport. Economic arguments are cited. Manchester City Council leader Sir Richard Leese has expressed his support for the stand taken by his counterparts in Hull.
Last edited by Shed-on-a-Pole; 29th Mar 2015 at 20:26.
Reason: Extra Info.