THE region's largest airport could be renamed in drastic plans to add Sunderland to its name if proposals end up being successful.

An ambitious bid has been launched by the Wearside Liberal Democrats to rename Newcastle Airport to 'Newcastle Sunderland Airport.'

Lib Dem councillors in the area argue that such a move will put Sunderland "on the map," bringing a major boost to the area.

However, suggestion of the name change has prompted controversy with some mocking their calls to rename the airport.

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But for Lib Dem Cllr Paul Edgeworth, the name change would help end a feeling that Sunderland is overlooked in favour of Newcastle.

Cllr Edgeworth, who represents Grindon and Thorney Close in Sunderland, argued the case as he said the council already owned a significant share of the airport.

The Northern Echo:

Leeds Bradford Internationak Airport has been used an example Picture: NORTHERN ECHO

He said: “Renaming the airport to ‘Newcastle Sunderland’ would be a major boost putting Sunderland on the map as an ambitious city that is serious about attracting new jobs, businesses and investment.

"It would also help to support and promote the University and ties in with the push to regenerate the city centre and invest in our tourism and culture offer.

“People in Sunderland, through the local council, own a significant share of Newcastle Airport but feel like on this issue, just like many others, our Council lets Sunderland be overlooked in favour of Newcastle."

Sunderland City Council is understood to be one of the local authority shareholders, who between them own 51 per cent of the airport's operation.

As a result, a debate on the name change has been called with all 75 Sunderland City Councillors set to meet on Wednesday, June 23.

Cllr Edgeworth said: “That’s why Liberal Democrats are asking Sunderland Council to show some leadership and ambition for our city by using its significant shareholding in the airport to fight to rename it to ‘Newcastle Sunderland International Airport.’

“This would follow in the footsteps of the likes of Leeds Bradford and Doncaster Sheffield Airports which reflect both of the major places they serve – and if the renaming took place in 2022 it would be a fitting tribute to mark the 30th anniversary of Sunderland gaining city status.”

But on social media, some criticised the suggestion with some saying the airport remained in the Newcastle area while others said a name change would be “irrelevant.” 

Danny Mitchell said: "This is just silly, how would adding Sunderland make it more relevant? Also the location of the airport is Newcastle."

Gary Carter said: "Best change "Manchester Airport" to "Liverpool, Manchester, Sheffield Airport" then ... it's called Newcastle Airport because it's in Newcastle."

But the suggestion was also met with some mocking it, with Andrea Kirton saying: "Very much looking forward to Newcastle Sunderland Air Show this year."

Newcastle Airport has been approached for comment.