Birmingham Airport could be used as mortuary during coronavirus pandemic

Birmingham Airport could be used as a mortuary during the coronavirus crisis, according to the city council.

The airport – the UK’s third largest outside London – is reportedly co-operating with relevant authorities to find a “suitable location” within the site, should the need rise.

The initial discussions are said to be part of plans to support local bereavement services as part of a key infrastructure response, should the COVID-19 outbreak become more severe.

Earlier this week, it was suggested that the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) near the airport in Solihull could double up as a field hospital, in a similar model as planned for the smaller London’s ExCeL Centre.

Sandwell Council said it was working with local authorities on mortuary provision across the West Midlands.

Councillor Wasim Ali, cabinet member for resources and core services, said: “Unfortunately, everyone is only too aware that families are very sadly losing loved ones to coronavirus.

“We are confident that the work we are doing now will make sure resources that may sadly be needed over the coming months are in place.”

A spokesperson for Birmingham Airport said: “We have been in discussions with the authorities and we will of course co-operate to find a suitable location and help where we can to support the fightback against this pandemic.”

The news comes as Birmingham City Council announced that funerals will be limited to six people due to the outbreak and the need for strict social distancing.

For more information on coronavirus and official NHS guidelines, click here.