In reality there is no serious discussion to be had east of the Pennines etc, and only theorists can believe there is. Why??..in a word money, or lack of it. For this reason any new airport is a complete, absolute and utter non starter. This part of the world requires much inward investment in transport infrastructure just for many people to get to work every day. Thats how it is around here and I very much doubt that anything will improve anytime soon.
Just to imagine, for a moment, anyone got to throwing squillions at a new airport, the locals protests would be heard the length and breadth of the country. A new airport we do NOT need, but just fixing the
potholes would be a start.
Chaps, you are spot on, the owner has very clearly nailed his colours to the mast.