7 March 2023
Scampton, the RAF airfield that’s been home to both the Red Arrows and the famous Dambusters squadron, is to remain an operational airfield as part of a plan to regenerate the 800 acre site.
West Lindsey District Council will purchase the former RAF Scampton site from the Ministry of Defence. And in a ‘back-to-back arrangement’, the Council will transfer ownership to its new development partner, Scampton Holdings Limited.
The council said in a statement, “The deal, which will secure over £300 million of investment into the regeneration of the site will preserve, protect and enhance the site by providing aviation heritage, business, aerospace, space and aviation technology and education opportunities.
“At the heart of the proposal is the continued use of Scampton as an operational airfield, which will assist in enabling investment across four key business areas:
Council leader, councillor Owen Bierley, said, “As we approach the significant milestone of the 80th anniversary of Operation Chastise – the Dambusters Raid – and will be remembering the important role that RAF Scampton played, the Council is proud to be taking this huge step to preserve and enhance the heritage of the site.
“The Council has always believed that whilst the site was deemed surplus to MOD requirements, it should play a key role in Levelling Up opportunities across West Lindsey and Lincolnshire.
“I am delighted that Scampton Holdings Limited share the vision for the site, which has been based on significant public and stakeholder engagement through the Local Plan process. Taking what are considered to be unique features, such as the world-renowned heritage, restricted airspace and strategic location, our new partner has been able to create a commercially viable and deliverable investment proposition and master plan.
“The Council has the resources in place to deliver the site purchase and Development Agreement and we look forward to working closely with Scampton Holdings Limited and the Ministry of Defence in the coming weeks to complete the deal.”
Masterplan for Scampton Airfield
Chairman of Scampton Holdings Limited, Peter Hewitt, said, “Scampton Holdings Limited are passionate about unlocking the future potential of this key site.
“We bring to the table a wealth of experience and knowledge across the aerospace, defence, aviation, heritage and hospitality sectors, which through our collaborative and partnership approach to regenerating the site, will ultimately deliver 1000s of highly skilled new jobs in key growth sectors in the region.
“2023 will finally be the year where new life is breathed into this wonderful former RAF base for the benefit of the local community and the economy in Lincolnshire and beyond.”
The Council says it will now work with the Ministry of Defence and Scampton Holdings Limited to conclude the deal as quickly as is practicable.
