## Welsh Airport Under New Management
A new group, the Swansea Airport Stakeholders Alliance, has taken over the operation of Swansea Airport after engaging in high-level talks with Swansea Council, the airport’s owner. The previous leaseholder has agreed to hand over the lease, leading to the alliance stepping in on a temporary basis. The airport is set to continue its operations, with the council initiating a process to find a long-term tenant soon.
Council leader Rob Stewart expressed his delight in having the alliance as the new temporary leaseholder, noting their enthusiasm to make the airport a success. The council plans to seek a long-term solution through a competitive tender process, allowing the alliance and others to bid. Opportunities for future investment in the airport are on the horizon.
### Key Points:
– Swansea Airport Stakeholders Alliance takes over airport operation.
– Temporary leaseholder status granted after talks with Swansea Council.
– Council seeks long-term tenant through competitive process.
– Previous leaseholder relinquishes lease due to issues in recent years.
Bob Oliver, the chairman of the alliance, highlighted the culmination of three years of hard work to secure a promising future for the airport. The focus is now on revitalizing the airport to make it a welcoming place that brings social, environmental, and economic benefits to Swansea and its residents. The airport, sitting on a 450-acre site with two runways, currently serves private pilots, flying schools, and a skydiving company.
### Additional Information:
– Swansea Airport originally part of Gower’s Fairwood Common.
– Requisitioned during World War II, later returned to civilian use.
– Two runways on the 450-acre site catering to various aviation activities.
While challenges with the previous tenant led to the end of the existing lease, Swansea Council ensures no additional cost to taxpayers, affirming that the airport will remain open. The airport’s licence with the Civil Aviation Authority, suspended for over a year, has now been officially revoked. Despite this, aviation activities will continue at the site, with ongoing engagement between the CAA, council, and any new leaseholder.
Overall, the transition to new management at Swansea Airport sets the stage for a renewed focus on its development and potential growth. Stakeholders are eager to steer the airport towards a brighter future, fostering a sense of pride among the community and enhancing the airport’s value for all involved.