Mayor says government are “washing their hands” of Doncaster Sheffield Airport

Earlier this week, Transport Secretary Anne-Marie Trevelyan told ITV Calendar News that discussions surrounding the future of Doncaster Sheffield Airport are between Peel and Doncaster Council, and that Peel’s “view is sealed” on their decision to close.

She also criticised the council for attempting to make a deal with Peel, saying that the airport has been unable to run for “a number of years”.

Doncaster Mayor Ros Jones expressed her disappointment in Trevelyan’s words in a statement:

“I find it such a shame that the response from the Secretary of State for Transport Anne-Marie Trevelyan is to simply wash their hands of trying to save Doncaster Sheffield Airport.

“Peel announced their intention to close, despite our significant offer to underwrite the losses of DSA whilst we continue to work with potential buyers.

“I completely disagree with the transport secretary and Peel, DSA can and should be profitable if managed and operated correctly. I believe Peel have never been interested in the long term operation of DSA, and their true colours are now apparent.

“DSA is more than just an airport, it is of strategic national importance, and vital to the Doncaster and South Yorkshire Economy.

“I would like to reiterate that the only two options to save Doncaster Sheffield Airport are:

“1. Peel reverse their decision and come back to the table whilst we undertake due diligence with potential buyers

“2. Government nationalise DSA OR intervene through the use of the Civil Contingencies Act 2004

“CPO is an option, but this will not save the airport, as it would take roughly 2 years and subject to considerable legal challenge.

“It would appear that government are not interested in working with us to keep the airport open, I call on the Prime Minister to honour her commitment, made on three separate occasions to step in and help save Doncaster Sheffield Airport.”

Last week, eleven MPs wrote to the Transport Secretary calling on her to use emergency powers in the Civil Contingencies Act to keep the airport open due to its vital operations.

She did not comment on this in her interview.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by t aking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Dominic Brown, editor.