Reviving Dreams or Wasting Resources? The Fight to Reopen Doncaster's Airport

On the cusp of a political shift, 37 Reform councillors are set to make waves in the Doncaster Council chamber, as they navigate a landscape shaped by the recent elections that saw Labour’s mayor, Ros Jones, re-elected with a promise to revive Doncaster Sheffield Airport. This marks a critical moment for the city, given that Reform has risen to become the council’s largest party, yet holds no control due to the unique mayoral system that still empowers Jones.

The juxtaposition between the dramatically decreased number of Labour councillors and Jones’s success raises questions about voter intent—why did citizens back Jones for mayor yet overwhelmingly support Reform for council seats?

Jones’s political maneuvering will be crucial as she seeks cross-party solidarity to address key issues such as the airport’s reopening and the council’s budget. The airport’s closure in 2022, citing lack of viability by the Peel Group, leaves a looming question: Can it be reopened for the projected £100 million of public funds? This was a major campaign topic for Jones, and now her accountability hinges on whether she can deliver on her promises.

As confidence in the proposal grows among the populace, doubts arise about its economic and environmental viability. Significant voices, including Richard Sulley from the University of Sheffield, express skepticism regarding the wisdom of reopening an airport amid concerns about carbon emissions and public resource allocation.

Local businesses echo this sentiment, worrying about the logistical challenges and job training required for reopening. With the airport operating out of a wholly-owned subsidiary called Fly Doncaster, and Munich Airport International as a strategic partner, the campaign faces challenges, not just politically but also operationally. Key stakeholders, such as Oliver Coppard, are cautious about financial backing from the South Yorkshire devolution fund, emphasizing that any expenditure must be justified.

As the council approaches a potential impasse, citizens hope for a balanced discussion on the pros and cons of the airport’s future. This decision carries long-term implications for Doncaster, especially with potential changes to its mayoral system on the horizon.