A preferred bidder has been recommended to acquire Gloucestershire Airport, bringing ambitious plans to modernise the site and stimulate the local economy. Though the bidder’s identity will be revealed later, they have expressed strong commitment to the airport’s future and are excited about expanding the business parks and attracting new investment.
Leaders from Gloucester City Council and Cheltenham Borough Council praised the bidder’s enthusiasm and vision for the airport’s pivotal role in regional economic development. Jointly owned by both councils, Gloucestershire Airport was put up for sale in October last year.
Gloucester City Council will formally consider the sale at their full council meeting on June 26, following prior review by cabinet members. The decision will be confirmed at that time.
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Located on a sprawling 350-acre site, the airport features two prosperous business parks and holds planning permission for an additional 30,000 square meters of commercial space. Established in the 1930s, it serves as a strategic gateway for business travel, flight training, and private aviation between Gloucester and Cheltenham.
Both councils opted to sell due to the significant investment required to maintain and expand operations. Gloucester City Council leader, Councillor Jeremy Hilton, stated, “Bidders needed to show passion for the airport’s future and its vital role in supporting economic growth across the county. We received strong interest, but the preferred bidder shares our vision of modernising the airport and delivering tangible benefits to the local community.”
He added, “With major regional developments underway, including the Forum and Golden Valley projects, now is the ideal time for the airport to contribute further to the local economy.”
Cheltenham Borough Council leader, Councillor Rowena Hay, said, “After careful consideration, we have selected a preferred bidder capable of unlocking the airport’s full potential and building on its success. Our aim through the sale is to secure long-term economic and social wellbeing for Cheltenham and the wider Gloucestershire area by attracting a new investor.”
Jason Ivey, Managing Director of Gloucestershire Airport, commented, “The level of interest in acquiring Gloucestershire Airport has been encouraging. We look forward to a smooth transition to private ownership, which secures existing jobs and creates new employment opportunities alongside infrastructure development.”
A representative from Skyborne, an airline academy based at the airport, remarked, “We are excited to see Gloucestershire Airport enter this new chapter. The prospective owners’ commitment to investing in the airport’s future is extremely positive for our trainees, instructors, and the broader aviation community. We anticipate working together to enhance training opportunities, support job creation, and keep Gloucestershire at the forefront of aviation excellence.”