A productive meeting has taken place over plans for a Heathrow logistics hub at Ballykelly, Co L'Derry.

The Ballykelly site is one of 18 locations competing to become an offsite hub to help deliver the airport's expansion plans. GRAHAM's Michelin Site in Silverwood Business Park, Co Antrim, is also in the running.

The shortlisted sites will have the opportunity this autumn to pitch to the airport's bosses for their chance to become one of the final four construction centres, to be announced early next year, ahead of work starting in 2021.

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Speaking after the meeting over Ballykelly, Sinn Féin MP Elisha McCallion said: "I met today with senior representatives of Heathrow Airport at Westminster to discuss the creation of a new logistics hub at Ballykelly. 

"It was a productive meeting and we discussed the opportunities this would involve for the north west if Ballykelly is chosen as a location for one of the hubs. 

"Several industries and sectors would benefit from the significant project. 

"The tendering process will begin in the autumn and I would encourage local firms and suppliers to be ready for it. 

"I made it clear to the Heathrow officials that there is a united voice coming from the north west to secure this project for Ballykelly. 

"As well as the obvious benefits of creating employment, supporting local industries and boosting the local economy, if a hub is located at Ballykelly it could also involve opportunities for City of Derry Airport to create links with Heathrow in the future."

(CM)