Ayrshire's only airport has been included in the shortlist to become the Scottish logistics hub for Heathrow, in a move that will potentially create 16,000 jobs.

The ambitious bid, which is a joint project between Glasgow Prestwick Airport, South Ayrshire Council and Associated British Ports, is one of 18 included on the shortlist after 65 applications were made and made the next stage following a visit by Heathrow Airport representatives in June 2018 and the completion of a detailed pre-qualification questionnaire (PQQ) in early 2019.

A Scottish hub is guaranteed as a key commitment in Heathrow’s plan to enhance jobs and growth in Scotland as a consequence of its overall expansion project – with the eventual site playing a major supply chain role in the overall construction process.

The winning location will pioneer off-site manufacturing, kicking off the creation of up to 16,000 new jobs and up to £17 billion in economic growth that the Heathrow expansion is predicted to bring Scotland.

Stewart Adams, Glasgow Prestwick Airport’s Chief Executive said: “We’re extremely pleased to be selected for the next phase of the tender process, and we are confident the region has all the key attributes required to support long-term expansion at Heathrow.”

Councillor Douglas Campbell, Leader of South Ayrshire Council said: “This announc ement underlines the strength of our location in terms of infrastructure and connectivity and reflects our skilled workforce.”