Gloucestershire Airport is seeking a new owner and investor to take the airport — one of the busiest general aviation airports in the UK — to the next level.
Working in partnership with Cheltenham Borough and Gloucester City councils, the airport senior leadership team has recently been expanded, with the hiring of a new human resources manager, a new head of finance and a new head of operations — all of which will be integral to the sale of the airport.
After receiving a 'much-needed' multi-million-pound investment in 2021, funded by GFirst LEP, Gloucester City and Cheltenham Borough councils, Gloucestershire Airport director Jason Ivey feels that 'the timing is right to seek new investment, expertise and resources.'
Gloucestershire Airport ranks in the Civil Aviation Authority's top 15 airports for aircraft movements, as well as boasting its own fire station and two business parks that span 700,000 sq ft — including the recently completed CGX Connect.
Babcock and Safran also have bases at the airport, alongside a number of other high-profile aviation-related businesses.
Leader of Cheltenham Borough Council, councillor Rowena Hay said: 'The future of the airport and the contribution both the airport and the businesses located there ensure that the regional economy is well recognised. The timing is now right for both councils to bring in a new owner to take it forward.'
Ivey added: 'The airport is a real asset for Gloucestershire and with the right investment it can play an even greater role in unlocking regional growth and supporting exciting projects like the Golden Valley Development.'
Originally formed in 1936 as Staverton Airport, the 300-acre site underwent an upgrade that meant the north-south runway could be closed, in order to free up over 300,000 sq ft of surplus land for potential development.
Its resurfaced runways also received new lighting, upgrades to signage and drainage, as well as the installation of below-ground infrastructure in readiness for a new radar system.
Leader of Gloucester City Council, councillor Richard Cook commented: 'Both councils are committed to preserving the airport as a centre for aviation for the benefit of Gloucestershire, especially given its extensive heritage.
It plays a hugely important role within the region and we hope that a new owner will take it to the next level.'
