ASHBY MP Amanda Hack says people in North West Leicestershire must get the chance to access the new jobs made available by the new partnership between global logistics giant Prologis and East Midlands Airport.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves announced the tie-up today (Wednesday) during a speech to an audience of business chiefs at Siemens in North Oxfordshire.

She said that there is to be a new advanced manufacturing park within the East Midlands Freeport zone to unlock £1billion of investment and 2,000 jobs.

Ms Hack, the MP for North West Leicestershire, said: "Today's announcement from the Chancellor will unlock up to £1 billion of investment at East Midlands Airport, marking a significant commitment to our region.

"The promise of a training and skills centre is a welcome addition that aims to address the skills gap in North West Leicestershire. 

"We must ensure that everyone in the constituency has the opportunity to access these skills and new jobs. 

The Chancellor Rachel Reeves. Photo: Dreamstime.com

"Having met with both Prologis and MAG at East Midlands Airport last week, we discussed the importance of working closely with local communities to mitigate the impact this development will have. 

"I was encouraged to hear that early engagement with local communities is already underway to recognise local concerns. 

"I will continue to work closely with all stakeholders, including the local community, MAG and Prologis, to ensure that our constituency benefits from the investment that East Midlands Airport brings, delivering future growth to our area in a viable way."

The BBC website reports that the freeport scheme was given Government approval in 2023 and seeks to use tax incentives to attract investment to three areas.

The scheme at Castle Donington is currently in the hands of North West Leicestershire District Council planners.