Unions are demanding clarity from a Reform UK-led council over its commitment to reopen Doncaster Sheffield Airport, which has been closed since 2022. The airport, formerly known as Robin Hood Airport, was shut down after owner Peel Group declared it financially unviable. Peel still owns the site, but Doncaster Council signed a 125-year lease in 2024.
£57 Million Loan at Risk
Last November, councillors approved a £57 million loan to aid the airport's reopening. However, unions fear the council may backtrack on this promise. Before the loan was agreed, the council had already approved £16 million for preparatory work, money that could be lost if the plans collapse. A cabinet report from October put the total reopening cost at £193 million.
Unions Organise Protest
Unions are organising a 'save our airport' protest outside the airport on Wednesday to press their demands. This comes despite reports that operator Fly Doncaster is seeking on-site partners, including a fixed base operator for private jets, medical aircraft, and private pilots.
TUC Yorkshire Regional Secretary Dave Pike stated: 'Reform looked voters in the face and promised that Doncaster Sheffield Airport would be at the heart of regenerating Doncaster and the wider region. We expect them to honour that promise. The terms of the loan have not changed since before or after last year’s election, so there is no justification for this huge U-turn. Reopening Doncaster Sheffield Airport would create thousands of good quality, union jobs and deliver a huge boost to the local economy. Walking away now would mean wasting money already spent, putting all those on the line and squandering a once-in-a-generation opportunity for this region.'
Sarah Barnes, GMB Organiser, added: 'It wasn’t long ago workers, unions and politicians fought tooth and nail to save Doncaster Sheffield Airport. Now, councillors want to trample all over their dreams and rob South Yorkshire of its international transport hub. Doncaster Sheffield Airport is vital for the region and will create thousands of jobs. The council needs to row back on their broken promise and give us back our airport.'
Unite regional officer Chris Rawlinson commented: 'Unite is clear: the reopening of Doncaster Sheffield Airport is vital for jobs, growth, and the region’s future. While concerns about lease terms should be addressed, withdrawing the £57 million loan - as proposed by Reform UK - would risk derailing the entire project. The priority must be to strengthen the deal, not stop it, and Unite will campaign to ensure this crucial investment is delivered.'
The Mirror has contacted Doncaster Council for comment.
