A major ‘Tourism Takeover’ at Heathrow airport will see the treasures of the North West featured in a large 3D backdrop, that Terminal 5 passengers can snap and share online.
In an effort to showcase the magic of the region to Heathrow’s 78 million annual visitors, the installation will feature some of the North West’s most legendary spots.
Passengers can pose for a photo of themselves standing beside spectacular images of iconic destinations from the GREAT campaign library. The North West frame features the iconic Blackpool Tower, as well as showing Liverpool’s Albert Dock, to lolloping fells of the Lake District.
In partnership with the GREAT Britain campaign, Heathrow’s ‘Tourism Takeover’ will hand over valuable terminal space to twelve inspiring installations – featuring marvels from every region and nation of the UK.
The plans are part of Heathrow’s pledge to boost UK tourism further – a recommendation which came out of twelve roundtables hosted by the airport to understand how expansion at the UK’s global gateway can benefit every corner of the country.
Business representatives, local councils and colleges attended Heathrow’s North-West roundtable in Blackpool to discuss how the new runway can drive trade, tourism and transport connections for the entire region.
The event also emphasised the need for more frequent and affordable domestic connections for the region. In January 2017, Heathrow introduced a £10 discount on domestic departing passenger charges which was increased by a further 50% in January 2018 to £15, helping to strengthen Heathrow’s existing route to Manchester.
Heathrow expansion, which will be voted on by MPs in the coming weeks, means the potential for new flights to currently unserved UK airports, which could mean a new route to Liverpool John Lennon Airport.
Speaking about the plans, Nigel Milton, Director of Communications at Heathrow Airport, commented: “As the international gateway to the UK, we want to inspire our 78 million annual passengers to venture out to the many incredible destinations that can be found across the North West. We recognise the role we play as the nation’s only hub airport, and are committed to driving tourism, investment and growth to every nation and region as we expand. That’s why we are proud to showcase the many diverse attractions that make the North West unique.”
Speaking on behalf of GREAT, Conrad Bird, CBE, Director of the GREAT Britain Campaign, added: “The UK offers an amazing and exciting variety of unique experiences, world class attractions and beautiful landscapes. Heathrow is the first point of welcome for millions of visitors coming to Britain to start their adventure and I’m delighted we’ll be greeting them with this showcase.”
Babs Murphy, Chief Executive of the North & Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, said: “The North West is ready to take full advantage of an expanded Heathrow airport which will act as the gateway to many of our iconic attractions, including the World famous Blackpool Tower and Pleasure Beach. Expansion at Heathrow means a boost for tourism, a boost for jobs and a boost for our region.“
