Work towards a brighter future for Swansea Airport has taken a big step forward.
High-level talks driven by land owner Swansea Council have resulted in an imminent change of operator at the facility.
The current leaseholder has agreed to relinquish its lease; a new leaseholder has agreed to take on the Fairwood Common facility on a temporary basis.
During that time, the airport will continue to operate – and the council will undertake a process to find a long-term tenant.
Council leader Rob Stewart said: “Our successful talks in this complex matter mean that we’re now in a position to install a temporary new leaseholder – the Swansea Airport Stakeholders’ Alliance. Its members are eager to make a success of the airport.”
Council joint deputy leader David Hopkins said: “We’ll start to look for a long-term solution through a competitive tender process. The alliance will have the opportunity, with others, to bid in that process. There’ll be opportunities for future investment in Swansea Airport.
“We thank all those involved in our talks over the past few months. We’ll keep the public informed about our ongoing activity to give the airport a viable future.”
Swansea Council is the landlord of Swansea Airport.
A range of issues with the current tenant, Swansea Airport Ltd (SAL), have arisen over recent years. These have resulted in the existing lease being brought to an end.
To ensure the facility remains open, the alliance will take temporary control of the airport once SAL vacate, ensuring a seamless handover.
The council does not envisage any additional cost to the taxpayer and the airport will remain open.