27 Nov Dillon – SDZ at IWAK is Crucial

Dillon – SDZ at IWAK is Crucial

Deputy Alan Dillon, Fine Gael spokesperson on Tourism and Sport has stressed the importance of the development of Ireland West Airport Knock Business campus and called on local government to utilise the Strategic Development Zone lands available in them.

Deputy Dillon attended a meeting this morning with Construction Industry Federation Western & Midlands region and highlighted the opportunity to create over 4000 jobs in the east Mayo Region.

In May 2017, under the Fine Gael Government, designated the airport as a SDZ and in September 2019 Mayo County Council approved the development of an SDZ at the airport and prepared a draft planning scheme.

Deputy Dillon said ‘Expressions of interest are now being sought from companies. The SDZ commercial lands at IWAK require enabling infrastructure and Government incentives to develop the 95,000 square meters of commercial, business and enterprise space along with additional facilities for aviation development, conference and hotel accommodation.

Deputy Dillon added ”the SDZ designation is a huge opportunity to further expand IWAK offerings to do business, set up new operations and create sustainable jobs. I will be seeking Mayo County Council to expand the SDZ not only include the Aviation sector but the commercial and corporate manufacturing and services sector.

Dillon continued ‘The Aviation sector remains heavily impacted by COVID-19 and unfortunately, this has had a significant reduction in passenger numbers at Ireland West Airport Knock and now is the time to for the Government to proceed with enabling works with the Strategic Development Zone at IWAK.