Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has announced that Manchester Airport will receive a Government grant of up to £8 million, and High Peak MP Robert Largan has backed this decision to protect jobs and the local economy. 

The funding is designed to help with the cost of paying Business Rates, providing much-needed financial relief this year.

The funding, which will also be used to support ground handlers, comes as the Transport Secretary announced plans to reduce the time needed in self-isolation after travelling abroad. From 15 December, passengers returning from overseas will be given the option of having a coronavirus test after five days in isolation, with a negative test releasing them from the need to isolate for any longer. 

Taken together, the new funding and quarantine measures will give a much-needed boost to the aviation sector, which has faced a challenging year after passenger numbers severely declined during the coronavirus pandemic.

Airports, airlines and other aviation businesses have also been able to draw on the Government’s unprecedented support, including the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and Business Interruption Loans. In total, the aviation and aerospace sectors have received over £9 billion in support.

Robert Largan MP commented: 

“I am really pleased that Manchester Airport will receive up to £8 million to help it protect jobs during these challenging times. Along with the Government’s new testing strategy, I hope that this funding marks a real turning point for Manchester Airport, which supports so many jobs and businesses in the High Peak. 

“This Government has provided unprecedented levels of support to protect jobs and businesses through the pandemic, and this latest support will be hugely important for helping High Peak to build back better after coronavirus.”