Local leaders call for more support to save Doncaster Sheffield Airport

South Yorkshire leaders have released a statement addressing the future of Doncaster Sheffield Airport after the owners announced it may need to close. 

The Peel Group, which owns the airport, said this is due to a shortfall in passenger numbers and the departure of Wizz Air, leaving just one base carrier, TUI, left in the facility. 

The news was met with contempt from locals who set up petitions in objection to the move, which have now gained more than 70,000 signatures.

Local politicians have said the Peel Group needs to work with local authorities to bring up passenger numbers and the government needed to offer more support as part of the Levelling Up agenda. 

In a statement signed by South Yorkshire Mayor, Oliver Coppard, and other local leaders, it said: ‘Doncaster Sheffield airport is crucial to South Yorkshire’s economy. It supports thousands of jobs, attracts inward investment, supports trade, and connects South Yorkshire internationally.

‘Peel’s approach to engagement with our region’s political leadership has been disappointing. We now need them to both match our level of ambition for the site and engage with us to bring about the boost in passenger numbers we all want to see. We will be speaking directly to the Group’s Board and senior leadership team as a matter of urgency and we are committed to working with them to ensure the future of DSA, or finding an alternative private sector operator who can unlock its potential.

‘There is also a role for Government. Following recent announcements from South Yorkshire’s bus companies, and the cancellation of rail services to both Leeds and Manchester, the Government must now work with us to save our region’s airport.If this government are serious about levelling up and committed to the promises made, both to the communities of South Yorkshire and the whole of the UK, now is their opportunity to demonstrate that commitment.’

Others who signed the statement include Leader of Sheffield City Council, Cllr Terry Fox,  Leader of Barnsley Council, Cllr Sir Steve Houghton CBE, Mayor of Doncaster, Ros Jones, and Leader of Rotherham Council, Cllr Chris Read. 

Only open for 17 years, if the airport were to be closed 800 jobs would be at risk. 

The Mayoral Combined Authority, Local Enterprise Partnership and local authorities have worked with the government to improve rail connectivity.

They have also given loans worth £8m and are in discussions over a further £20m loan to support the airport’s development. 

Photo by Anna Gru