The South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) and City of Doncaster Council unanimously approved an almost £160 million funding package to reopen Doncaster-Sheffield International Airport. The airport closed in November 2022, leaving the city without an international aviation presence, but it is set to reopen early next year.
A Catalyst for Business
Barnsley and Rotherham Chamber welcomed the reopening, as they, along with Doncaster Chamber and Sheffield Chamber, played a significant role in making the case for the airport’s reopening.
Carrie Sudbury, Chief Executive of Barnsley and Rotherham Chamber, hopes that the airport will act as a catalyst for business growth in the region by helping connect business communities with international markets. The recruitment process has begun, and many opportunities are expected to be generated for people in the local area.
Funding and development: Gateway East
The decision to release the additional funding on top of an already passed £16 million toward the project took place at the airport on September 9th. The airport lies in the Gateway East mixed-use development complex, an effort to develop and support businesses. The complex is split into sections surrounding the airport, making it a hub for the Gateway East development.
From Rachel Reeves, Chancellor of the Exchequer, to the Mayor of South Yorkshire, everyone agrees that the airport is intended to provide passengers with more options and boost the region’s economy.
A press release from the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority states that significant passenger operations are not expected to commence until summer 2028, with limited passenger activity and cargo services anticipated from late 2027.
New Job opportunities
The city of Doncaster’s website currently advertises job positions for the airport, which will open in 2026. Current vacancies at the airport include only senior positions, such as Head of General Aviation and Cargo and Head of Fire Rescue and Emergency.
The Head of General Aviation and Cargo role will lead the development of cargo and freight services, and the Head of Fire and Rescue role will oversee the delivery of an on-site emergency service.
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