Gloucestershire Airport Re-listed for Sale at £25 Million After Deal Collapses
The loss-making regional airport in Staverton has attracted significant interest despite a previous sale falling through in March.
Gloucestershire Airport has been put back on the market for £25 million, just four months after a private sale agreement collapsed. The airport, jointly owned by Gloucester City Council and Cheltenham Borough Council, is seeking a new buyer after negotiations with Horizon Aero Group fell through in March.
Despite being loss-making, the airport has experienced a gradual improvement in its financial performance over the last three years. Unaudited figures for the financial year showed a loss of £2.1 million, including loan interest and depreciation. However, operational losses, excluding these factors, decreased from £1,333,041 in 2024 to £489,979 in 2026. Estate agent Savills has been appointed to handle the sale, inviting offers for the aviation hub.
Gloucestershire Airport, situated on a 350-acre site, hosts approximately 66,000 aircraft movements annually and is strategically located between Cheltenham and Gloucester. The property includes planning consent for an additional 320,000 square feet of business space and already features two business parks covering 700,000 square feet. The local authorities have expressed optimism regarding the sale, citing considerable interest from potential buyers.
Councillor Rowena Hay, leader of Cheltenham Borough Council, stated that the renewed sale process aims to attract a suitable partner for the airport's future. Councillor Jeremy Hilton, leader of Gloucester City Council, emphasized the airport's importance as an economic and aviation asset for the region and expressed confidence in engaging investors who share a vision for growth.
Built in 1930, Gloucestershire Airport was recognized as the UK's busiest airport for general aviation in 2023. Between 2021 and 2023, the airport received nearly £10 million in capital investment for upgrades to its runway and related infrastructure. Jason Ivey, managing director at Gloucestershire Airport, highlighted the positive team spirit and local support, expressing anticipation for the airport to realize its full potential with a new investor. Savills described the opportunity as rare, noting the site's significant potential.