Plans to reopen the Doncaster Sheffield Airport by Spring 2026 have been made, after a bidder has been identified, promising significant economic benefits.

Mayor Jones said: “Reopening our airport is my number one priority and I am delighted to announce that we have reached the major milestone of identifying the bidder to help us reopen our beloved airport. 

“I appreciate that people will want to know who the successful bidder is, I will of course share who has been appointed when I can.”

The details of the bidder will remain confidential until further into the process as commercial negotiations are ongoing.

There is an estimated creation of over 5,000 direct jobs and 6,500 indirect jobs and the growth of jobs could boost the economy by £6.6bn when fully operational.

To expedite the reopening, the City of Doncaster Council is asking South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SMYCA) for the immediate release of a £3m financial package to continue commercial negotiations and help prepare timely activity on site.

The SMYCA will review the Business Case which will outline the potential economic benefits of the airport’s reopening next Tuesday, November 12.

If approved, the case will go to the Government’s Subsidy Advice Unit for further consideration.

This requested funding for support is part of Doncaster’s £138m gainshare from the SYMCA allocation and it is subject to the Subsidy Advice Unit with a decision expected in early January 2025.   

Mayor Jones understands that ‘residents and businesses are keen for the airport to reopen’ and reassures the community that they are working hard to reopen the airport and aim to resume passenger flights by Spring 2026.

“Our proposition is not just an airport but will be a hub for a sustainable aviation related industry. The programme has incredible potential, to bring jobs and prosperity to Doncaster and the wider South Yorkshire region.” 

The Civil Aviation Authority is currently reviewing the reinstatement of airspace, a crucial step in the reopening process.

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Image: Shaun Flannery Photography 2020