Six Northern Ireland sites have been assessed by Heathrow Airport representatives as part of its expansion.

The sites were shortlisted to become Heathrow Logistic Hubs, where parts would be pre-assembled before being transported to London for the airport expansion. The proposed sites include three Mid and East Antrim locations - the former home of Michelin in Ballymena, Belfast City Council's Giant's Park, and a Lisburn and Castlereagh business park.

The hubs could deliver an economic boost of £5 billion and create 5,000 jobs in Northern Ireland. A total of 65 sites across the UK are being considered as hub locations.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Lindsay Millar, said: "Being part of the Heathrow expansion would be a big boost for the manufacturing and construction sectors here, and for the wider economy. We have the capability and the capacity to play a big part in this project and have shown the Heathrow delegation that we are ready and willing to work with them."

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Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Paul Michael, added: "We are delighted to have two sites shortlisted in the bid to secure one of the four Heathrow Logistics Hubs. This initiative represents a unique opportunity to help to deliver an efficient and affordable expansion of Heathrow, whilst leaving behind a lasting economic legacy for Northern Ireland. Our offer is built upon the excellent transport network that connects us with Heathrow by road, rail, sea and air and the outstanding supply chain of local companies that can support the expansion."

As well as visiting the potential sites, the Heathrow delegation also met with some of the major construction and manufacturers in Northern Ireland to find out more about their businesses and to explain how the hubs will fit into the airport's expansion plans.

The representatives organised a Summit with the NI Chamber of Commerce to engage potential SMEs suppliers and to provide insights on how they could fit into the project through meet-the-buyer events.

"Heathrow expansion is a once in a generation opportunity to transform the UK construction industry, build for the future and deliver a lasting skills legacy for future generations," said Lord Deighton, Chairman at Heathrow Airport. "All of this comes at a pivotal time for our country, as it prepares itself to leave the EU and where we need to build for our future in both travel and trade.

"The Logistics Hubs and our Business Summits are both instrumental in our aim to ensure that Heathrow benefits the whole of the UK."

(CM/MH)