The future of Gloucestershire Airport’s sale has come under scrutiny as doubts emerge about the progress of the deal. Gloucester City Council and Cheltenham Borough Council, which jointly own the 375-acre Staverton site, are negotiating its sale to Horizon Aero Group, the preferred bidder.
Originally announced in July, the sale includes the airport, two successful business parks, and planning permission for an additional 30,000 square metres of business space. City Council leader Jeremy Hilton expressed optimism in September that the transaction would be completed by Christmas.
However, recent speculation suggests the deal may be at risk. At a December 10 cabinet meeting, Labour group leader Terry Pullen questioned the viability of the sale, voicing concerns that Horizon Aero Group might not proceed as planned.
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In response, Councillor Hilton emphasized that due diligence is ongoing and the sale process remains thorough and complex given the size and value of the assets involved. He acknowledged that such transactions can take longer than expected and refused to guarantee completion until all contracts are signed and payments received.
Drawing a parallel to purchasing a house, Hilton remarked, “It’s not sold until it is sold, until everybody has signed the deal and paid the money.” He also dismissed some negative media rumors as unfounded and lacking factual basis.
At this stage, while the councils remain committed to the sale, uncertainty persists until the final agreement is secured.