Invest

On 15th May 2008 120 business leaders from across Doncaster and South Yorkshire gathered at Robin Hood Airport to hear plans for the future of the airport. The event took place at the official opening of Building 21, the first state of the art office block to be completed on the adjacent 62 acre business park dedicated to Aviation related uses.

Peter Nears, Strategic Director of Planning for Peel Airports spoke about the future of the airport and around the forthcoming masterplan. Highlights included plans to increase passenger numbers to 10.8 million per annum by 2030 from its current 1.1 million and transporting over 100,000 tonnes of freight up from the 3000 tonnes moved at present. It is expected employment growth on the site will grow over time from its current 1000 to over 10,000 with the site encouraging new aviation related investors.

Andy Gutherson, Group Director of Development for Doncaster Council outlined plans of how the Council will support the development of the airport within the Economic framework for Doncaster. He spoke of the recently commissioned Aviation Strategy, looking at how Doncaster can exploit the long term growth of the airport within the aviation sector. It also looks at finding immediate opportunities for investment and development through the work of the Invest In Doncaster ‘Take off at the Airport’ team.

Finally Richard Smith outlined the long term vision for Directions Finningley the on site National Aviation Academy. The Academy has partnered with Marshall Aerospace and is looking to open a 4D design aviation centre at the airport.

The venue, Building 21, a 10,000 sq ft state of the art office block has been constructed by Wright Commercial. It is the first speculative office building to be constructed on the Business Park and is now available to buy or lease on a flexible basis.

Colin Wright, Chief Executive of Wright Commercial, said: "Companies that require a modern working environment, easy access to the road network and room to expand growing businesses will find these units perfect. With designated free parking, air conditioning and high-speed internet access the offices are proving an attractive offer.

 
The intention for the Airport Business Park was to create quality units within a contemporary design offering a light and spacious interior. The concept clearly works and it is excellent feedback for us that companies are already interested.”