PRESTWICK Airport are hoping the announcement of a third runway at Heathrow could lead to a boom for the local economy.

Following the approval by the UK government’s economic sub-committee, backing the plans for the new runway and describing it as a “historic moment” for the UK, Prestwick Airport are now in the works of collaborating and developing a plan to support Heathrow in being a Multi-Modal Logistics Hub in Scotland.

A spokesperson for Prestwick Airport, said: “We are currently working collaboratively to develop a comprehensive offering that brings together a number of private and public-sector partners and investors to showcase a multi-modal logistics hub proposition to support the future development of Heathrow.

“We believe it’s the best combined air, rail and sea freight solution in Scotland, which is underpinned by accessible supply chain capability and capacity, skills pipeline and development sites.

“Our proposition spans two key locations: the airport and the Port of Ayr, Falkland Rail Freight Yard and Newton Shore.”

The third runway will also open opportunities for domestic flights, which would provide Prestwick Airport with “much needed access” in securing a London route, opening a “wide range of onward connections”.

The spokesperson added: “A key target for Glasgow Prestwick Airport is securing a London route. It would provide much needed access to a wide range of onward connections.

“Additionally, this improved connectivity to the UK capital would prove hugely valuable for the economy of the west of Scotland by unlocking opportunities to access the large South East of England market and propagate inward investment opportunities that will likely follow the re-establishment of direct flights.

“We know that there is demand for this route and London Heathrow would be an ideal London Airport to partner with.”