BVEP Connections Summer 2016 July 2016 | Page 15

Michael Watton - venue director at Farnborough International entire event space can accommodate. As soon as the structures come down after the show closes, contractors will move in to begin work on the new permanent Hall 1 which is due for completion in 2018. James Heappey, MP for Wells and chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group for Events, commented; “It has been great to not only hear about one of Britain’s greatest event success stories, but to experience it in all its glory. It is also very exciting to hear the plans for the future expansion of the show and additional events taking place on the site, with the development of the Hall 1 facility.” Michael Watton, venue director added; “We have been delighted to host such an important group of event industry figures today, hearing their insights and different perspectives on the value of major events. We look forward to welcoming them back to the airshow in two years’ time when the build of our new venue is completed, boasting the first class facilities that will make us the premier event space in the South East.” 14