Leaders seek talks on former RAF Scampton future

Councillors are "deeply concerned" about the future of the former airbase

Council leaders have called for urgent talks with the government about the future of the former RAF Scampton.

In September, plans to convert the base into an asylum centre were scrapped by the new Labour government which said it no longer represented value for money.

The decision freed up the site for Scampton Holdings Limited's £300m regeneration project proposal, aiming to preserve the site's history and create thousands of jobs.

However, nearly two months later, leaders of Lincolnshire County Council, West Lindsey District Council (WLDC), and City of Lincoln Council claim there is no timeline for the sale of the site, which is still owned by the Home Office.

'Deeply concerned'

Council leaders have collectively written to Home Office minister Dame Angela Eagle, expressing concern about the uncertainty and impact the "delay" is having on local planning and community interests.

Councillor Trevor Young, leader of WLDC, said he was "deeply concerned" about the timeline of the withdrawal and disposal of RAF Scampton.

"This delay not only affects our planning and development strategies but also raises serious concerns about the condition of the site and the preservation of its heritage assets," he said.

Councillor Naomi Tweddle, leader of City of Lincoln Council added: “It’s essential that we meet with government to obtain an update on the current situation with Scampton."

Sir Edward Leigh raised the issue at Prime Minister's Questions on Wednesday

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS), Labour MP for Lincoln, Hamish Falconer, said preserving the former airbase’s heritage was one of his main goals.

Mr Falconer said he was "incredibly proud" of the community's campaigning and remained "committed" to ensuring the £300m redevelopment deal happens "as swiftly and effectively as possible".

The LDRS also said the Home Office has confirmed work to close the site has begun and it will continue to provide updates to key stakeholders in regards to the sale.

During Prime Minister's Questions, Conservative MP for Gainsborough Sir Edward Leigh asked the government to "work closely" with himself and WLDC on the future of RAF Scampton to preserve its history.

He asked it was "ensured" the site is "sold off in a timely fashion at a fair price to secure its future" to avoid it from becoming "covered with housing".

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said the government would keep him informed on any decisions.

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