THE Dragons' Den star, Duncan Bannatyne has unveiled plans to open a brand new spa at Teesside Airport - at a cost of more than £100,000.
The TV star and owner of the Darlington-based, Bannatyne will open a branch in the terminal building's departure lounge, later this year.
It comes as plans were earlier this year unveiled for the creation of an observation platform and sky bar overlooking the runway, due to open next year.
Read more: How impressive ROOFTOP viewing platform at Teesside Airport will look
The spa, which will carry the Bannatyne name, is expected to offer 15 to 30-minute treatments and include massage chairs, hands-on massage, manicures and pedicures.
It is also expected to offer "in-skin revitalisation" with LED face masks, while it will also sell a range of skincare products following a partnership with Elemis.
Duncan Bannatyne, chief executive and chairman at the Bannatyne Group, who said that the branch would be the first of its kind for Bannatyne, said the move reflected demand.
He said: “As a Darlington-headquartered business it is obvious that the rebirth of Teesside International Airport has been a huge positive for the town and the region.
“Passenger numbers are high and increasing as new flights and destinations are announced and I am proud to be investing in our first Express Spa and contributing in a small way to the vision the Tees Valley Mayor has for the airport.”
Creating several jobs to begin with, the spa will open opposite the newly-created Duty Free which is also expected to open in coming months.
Karen Wilkinson, operations director at the Bannatyne Group, said: “The transformation at Teesside Airport has been amazing and this is going to be another fantastic offering for its passengers.
"Whether it’s groups of friends, couples treating themselves pre-flight or a last-minute beauty fix the spa will cater for everyone.
“The emphasis will be on offering a calm and relaxing environment with first-class treatments and therapists, the perfect start to a holiday or a pick me up before a long-haul flight.”
Bosses say a North East firm has been drafted in to complete the works, which will remain in-keeping with the Bannatyne brand.
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “This is yet another vote of confidence in our airport from a renowned businessman who has seen the value of our transformation and wants to come on board.
"Duncan has an eye for spotting opportunities and growth and this latest venture is a testament to how far the airport has come, and he can see the potential.
“We’re always looking at ways to make the airport better, offering something a bit different experience for our passengers and standing out from the crowd.
"It’s also another example of how our airport is creating good-quality jobs for local people.”
Once open, the new spa will offer treatments in advance and offer walk-ins to passengers, depending on availability.
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