Doncaster Sheffield Airport, once serving Yorkshire travelers, closed in 2022 and although its future remains uncertain there are now glimmers of hope for a reopening. The airport opened in 2005 on the site of a former RAF base, hoping to become a regional success and ease pressure on larger airports such as Leeds Bradford. Early years showed promise with low-cost operator Tui opening a base at the airport.
In 2022, Doncaster Sheffield Airport closed after its owner, Peel Group, deemed it no longer financially viable. Doncaster Council’s legal challenge to the closure failed, and the council moved to force the sale of the airport.
Public support for reopening the airport is strong, with online petitions, social media campaigns, and backing from local MPs. Air traffic control has been withdrawn and the airspace around the airport has been downgraded.
Negotiations for a takeover stalled for months, but there were unconfirmed rumours of a reopening in April 2023. Doncaster City Council has pursued a compulsory purchase order and has investigated options to lease the airport from Peel. Planning restrictions have been proposed to protect airport infrastructure.
Optimism for reopening grew in September 2023, with a potential spring 2024 target. This was bolstered in February 2024 when £138 million in funding was approved, making the reopening likely. The reopening campaign is titled “South Yorkshire Airport City” and aims to revitalise the airport and create a business hub.
On 13th February 2024, regional leaders approved a plan that could lead to the airport’s reopening. Peel Group, after initially refusing to sell, has agreed to consider leasing the site. Doncaster Council now has access to £138 million to negotiate with potential investors and progress its South Yorkshire Airport City (SYAC) plan, aiming to create thousands of jobs and generate billions in revenue.
