UK Government Supports Mayor’s Plan to Reopen Airport

Hello, Champions of Net Zero! The South Yorkshire Mayor has exciting news to share – a multi-million-pound investment to support the reopening of Doncaster Sheffield Airport (DSA). This groundbreaking initiative is projected to generate 5,000 jobs, inject £5 billion into the economy, and deliver additional benefits worth £2 billion by 2050.

After years of dormancy, the airport, located in South Yorkshire, is poised to drive substantial growth across the north. Today’s decision, endorsed by the government, aims to establish a sustainable aviation hub in the region, igniting economic expansion. This announcement not only bolsters regional development but also showcases the power of devolution in action, with the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) utilising devolved funding for the project.

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner emphasised the importance of integrating regional growth into decision-making processes to foster economic prosperity and benefit working individuals. She highlighted the government’s commitment to kick-starting Local Growth Plans driven by local leaders, supporting mayors to kick off opportunities for jobs and growth, exemplified by the revitalisation of the regional airport.

Previous governments watched as Doncaster Sheffield Airport closed despite widespread support for its operation. The airport now stands idle, holding immense potential to drive job creation and economic growth in the north. Working collaboratively with the City of Doncaster Council and South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard, the government aims to support efforts to transform South Yorkshire Airport City into a thriving regional airport.

A working group has been established by the government in partnership with Doncaster Council and SYMCA to assist local initiatives in reopening the airport and exploring its potential benefits. In a recent meeting held on 9th April, South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard, Aviation Minister Mike Kane, Doncaster Council, and government representatives came together to discuss the project’s progress.

Mayor Oliver Coppard expressed gratitude for the significant funding package and the government’s support through the cross-departmental working group, emphasising the shared commitment to the airport, growth, job creation, and the future of Doncaster and South Yorkshire. This investment is a crucial step towards creating good jobs in emerging industries and shaping sustainable aviation technologies for the future.

This investment aligns with the Deputy Prime Minister’s agreement on new shared priorities with mayors nationwide, focusing on unlocking regional growth. These priorities include enhancing transport connectivity in the North East, expanding the skills base in West Yorkshire, and increasing housing availability in Liverpool.

These shared priorities mark the initial phase in developing comprehensive Local Growth Plans, designed to supercharge regional economies. By adopting a strategic approach to long-term growth, these plans aim to align government policies to cultivate a forward-looking economy with widespread benefits.

Exciting times lie ahead for Doncaster Sheffield Airport and the region as a whole, with this significant investment paving the way for job creation, economic growth, and sustainable development. Let’s look forward to the transformation of South Yorkshire Airport City into a thriving hub that benefits the community and the environment alike.

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