Gloucestershire Airport’s future in aviation and job security will be the primary focus as local councils prepare to finalize the sale of the Staverton site. Jointly owned by Gloucester City and Cheltenham Borough Councils, the airport was put on the market in October last year with a guide price of £25 million.
The sale decision is set for an extraordinary meeting on June 26, when council members will consider the bids for the entire 350-acre airport, established in the 1930s. Leaders from both councils have expressed confidence that the preferred bidders intend to keep the airport operational and invest in its growth.
Recently, senior council leaders and officers met with the two preferred bidders at the Guildhall to discuss their plans in detail. Gloucester City Council leader Jeremy Hilton confirmed at the May 19 annual meeting that the sale process is nearing completion.
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“We are nearing the point where we will recommend entering a 12-week negotiation period with the preferred bidder to finalize the sale of Gloucestershire Airport,” Hilton said.
An in-person briefing for council members will be held during the June 26 meeting, allowing members to ask questions and review details about the preferred bids.
“Both top bidders are committed to maintaining operational services at the airport and have clear investment strategies to support its future,” Hilton added. “We are confident this will ensure the continued growth of aviation at Gloucestershire Airport and safeguard existing jobs while creating many more in the sector.”
Cheltenham Borough Council is expected to make its decision ahead of Gloucester City Council, as the former’s leader holds greater authority over that council’s approval process. Hilton emphasized the importance of thorough discussion within Gloucester City Council before reaching a final decision.