Business Aviation Centre Cleared for Takeoff
A state of the art £6m Business Aviation Centre based at SaxonAir Ltd, Norwich International Airport, was approved by Norwich City Council's Planning Committee. Development will commence immediately and the Centre will be fully operational by the end of March 2011.The application was submitted by property consultants, Bidwells, on behalf of SaxonAir following detailed pre-application consultation with the City Council and local stakeholders. The Business Aviation Centre will meet the need for premium class travel from the growing demands of the local business aviation market. Managing director of SaxonAir, Chris Mace said 'The demand for business aviation has grown in popularity as a new generation of business executives prefer charter aircraft as the fastest, easiest way to travel enabling business schedules to be performed to maximise individual time efficiency and overall company productivity.' Its not just company executives that will be gracing the new VIP lounge; pop stars, film and TV personalities as well as Government officials and heads of State are customers of SaxonAir.
Bidwells Senior Associate, Ray Houghton states that 'The complete development will consolidate SaxonAir's existing operations into one bespoke building and hangars thereby improving operational practices and operational efficiencies.' Currently SaxonAir operates from temporary hangars however plans have recently been approved as permitted development for two new hangars. The Aviation Centre will be located between the two and will not only greatly enhance the facilities of Norwich International Airport but also be considerably more energy efficient and is in line with the airport's future growth strategy.
Facilities within the new Business Aviation Centre will include ground floor reception areas as well as a VIP lounge with associated facilities. The second floor will provide modern and well equipped offices for staff as well as rest facilities for flight crew. It is intended that all SaxonAir operations including their fleet of private jets will operate from this location.
Business Aviation Centre is a project that is directly in line with the growth strategy for the wider city as well as the airport. Norwich has been prioritised as a new Growth Point; an area for major housing and employment growth. As it provides a third of Norfolk jobs and is by far the largest economy in the area, the site is ripe for continued development. With many industries demanding an improved service for chartered flights such as financial, retail, media and life sciences this will be welcomed as another attraction for industry growth and ultimately further employment opportunities.
Andrew Bell, Chief Executive at Norwich Airport Limited commented, ' We are delighted with SaxonAir's commitment to develop a Business Aviation Centre at Norwich International Airport. This will be a class leading facility that tops what even the larger UK airports have to offer business travellers and further enhances Norwich International's offering as a gateway to the world. The development of this facility, coupled with SaxonAir's renowned service and quality standards, will provide a significant boost to the wider business community and will be another excellent reason for business to remain in or relocate to Norfolk.'
Saxon Air has experienced continued growth since it was established in 2007 despite the tougher economic climate. The development of the Business Aviation Centre, which will employ 63 staff, is expected to strengthen its position within the UK aviation industry and provide a hub to further development of similar facilities nationwide.
The Bidwells Planning Team is now one of the largest Planning Teams in East Anglia & the East Midlands. The Team offers clients a comprehensive service mix ranging from advice on development projects, strategic planning work, planning applications and appeals. We pride ourselves on our ability to work closely with our clients and manage projects on their behalf across the residential property, commercial, rural, leisure and utilities sectors.
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For further information please contact Ray Houghton on 01603 229 406 or email.
