Aerospace bosses at Prestwick Airport have submitted plans to South Ayrshire Council to build giant solar energy panels.

NATS Prestwick confirmed that they are seeking to build almost 2200 solar panels at their local base in an effort to reduce their carbon footprint, with the panels accounting for 21 per cent of the operations electricity.

The new panels would help the company become carbon negative in the area by 2040.

The plans, if approved, would see 1402 solar panels on building rooftops and 798 installed on the ground.

In a support statement, NATS Prestwick said: "NATS are pleased to be able to submit this detailed planning application to seek approval for the layout and design of the ground and roof mounted solar panels at the Prestwick Centre.

“These proposals present a significant investment by NATS and are a sign of their long-term commitment to the site; local area; and further contribute to the overall sustainability of the NATS operations in Prestwick.

“As a responsible operator, NATS is continually seeking to improve the sustainability of their facilities. NATS is working towards minimising their direct environmental impact and seeking to become carbon negative across their estates by 2040.

“The Prestwick Centre has been identified as a site which presents the ideal opportunity to utilise solar panels – the power from which can be used to provide renewable electricity to support the NATS Prestwick operation.”

NATS Prestwick controls almost all air traffic travelling between the US and Northern Europe, employing over 700 staff at the centre.