A strategic vision for developing Cotswold Airport has been presented by an economic growth organisation, which is pressing the government to consider establishing a dedicated aviation technology hub in the region.
The Good Growth Foundation has published research suggesting that smaller regional airfields such as Cotswold Airport possess the potential to become centres for unmanned aerial systems, aerospace manufacturing, experimental flight operations, sophisticated freight distribution and pilotless aircraft technology.
The organisation, which describes itself as a forward-thinking research group concentrating on economic advancement, is calling on ministers to utilise existing legal mechanisms to accelerate modifications to airspace regulations that could generate as many as 450 highly skilled employment positions.
Situated close to the settlement of Kemble in Gloucestershire, Cotswold Airport originally functioned as a Royal Air Force installation and presently accommodates business aviation, private jet services, venue lettings, instructional programmes and experiential flight offerings.
The think tank has pinpointed this facility as presenting significant potential.
The foundation’s document, titled A Golden Ticket for Government, identifies the site as a particularly strong contender due to its existing infrastructure for aircraft storage and servicing, surplus operational capacity and the comparatively uncluttered nature of its surrounding airspace.
The analysis indicates that these circumstances could render the location highly appropriate for validation and approval activities associated with developing aviation technologies, with projections suggesting employment creation in the range of 300 to 450 posts alongside regional economic output valued between £40 million and £110 million in Gross Value Added terms.
Lydd Airport in Kent has been identified as a proposed national trial location for an innovative Special Use Airspace framework, potentially offering a framework that could be adopted by other regional aerodromes.
The foundation contends that the establishment of a specifically designated and professionally overseen airspace zone would permit drones, autonomous vehicles and manned aircraft to function concurrently under safe conditions, thereby drawing investment toward what the organisation describes as the emerging phase of aviation development.
As Director of The Good Growth Foundation, Praful Nargund stated that the proposal presents a chance to leverage Cotswold Airport’s established capabilities as a foundation for technological advancement and sustained economic security for the surrounding area.
The organisation is urging officials to endorse the approach being developed at Lydd and to implement a comparable framework at the Kemble facility, claiming this represents the characteristics of responsible economic expansion applicable to all regions.
The researchers maintain that cabinet members possess sufficient authority to proceed without introducing fresh legislation.
Under the provisions of the Transport Act 2000, the Secretary of State for Transport holds powers to issue Air Navigation Directions that could prioritise and expedite airspace alterations serving the nation’s strategic priorities.
Tony Vaughn, the Member of Parliament representing Folkestone and Hythe, observed that Lydd Airport constitutes an integral part of Kent’s economic landscape, functioning as an employer, a base for Channel operations and as critical infrastructure with substantial capacity to deliver increased benefits to the county.
The proposal presents an opportunity to secure the airport’s future prospects, attracting fresh investment and creating quality employment for local residents while ensuring that younger generations do not need to relocate to access skilled career pathways.
Representatives have expressed their aspiration to see coastal communities prioritised for involvement in the employment sectors and industrial developments of tomorrow.
With appropriate support from central government, Lydd has the potential to serve as a compelling demonstration of successful implementation in practice.