Public Consultation On Future of Cornwall Airport Newquay

Residents and businesses are being encouraged to take part in a public consultation on the long-term future of Cornwall Airport Newquay.

The consultation follows months of speculation surrounding the airport's future and claims that Cornwall Council might be looking to sell it off. 

The two-week consultation, starting on Thursday, will involve key stakeholders, including business groups such as the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce. Business leaders previously criticised the Council for leaving businesses "in the dark" due to a lack of consultation. Feedback will also be sought from Cornwall’s Business Improvement Districts, such as Newquay BID. Residents will have the opportunity to provide their views via the Council's Let's Talk Cornwall online platform. Alternatively, they can meet with project team members in person at Newquay Library this Saturday, 14th September, from 1 pm to 4 pm.

In June, Cornwall Council revealed that its Cabinet had selected Adynaton as the preferred bidder for a potential partnership to secure the airport’s future. The Council is now working on a Land Use Blueprint for the airport estate.

Louis Gardner, the Cabinet Member for Economy and Newquay Councillor, commented:
“The plans will align with Cabinet’s commitment to prioritise and secure the future operation of Cornwall Airport Newquay and develop the surrounding land and business park to create jobs and economic growth.”

While discussions continue, the Council stresses that no final decision has been made regarding a joint venture, and any future development will undergo the standard planning and consultation processes. The Land Use Blueprint is being framed as a strategic vision for the airport's future rather than a finalised plan.

Earlier this year, a Strategic Review confirmed that talks were ongoing with potential private partners in a bid to secure the airport’s future, attract investment, and reduce the financial burden on local taxpayers. The airport currently relies on millions of pounds in council subsidies each year.