Manston Airport in Kent, which has been closed since 2014, is poised to reopen as a major cargo hub by 2029 under new £750 million proposals. The disused airport, once briefly used as a lorry park during the COVID-19 lockdown, has otherwise remained dormant for 12 years.
Background and Investment
RiverOak Strategic Partners (RSP) purchased the airport for £16.5 million in 2019, initially aiming for a 2025 reopening. However, escalating costs have pushed the timeline to the end of the decade. The investment firm is now in business development talks with airlines and freight operators, and the planning process has entered its third phase.
Public Consultation on Airspace Changes
From March 16 to June 22, the public is being consulted on proposed airspace modifications. Residents, local communities, and broader stakeholders are invited to provide feedback. Tony Freudmann, Director at RiverOak Strategic Partners, stated: "This consultation is an important step in our ambitions to reopen Manston Airport. It represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver new runway capacity to support the UK air cargo market and to transform the economic landscape in east Kent."
Freudmann added: "We know Manston holds a special place in the area's history, we would encourage people to find out more about our proposal and provide any feedback they might have to help shape our plans."
Projected Capacity and Economic Impact
When initial proposals were drafted, the projected cost stood at £400 million, but this has since soared to £750 million. Once redevelopment is complete, Manston is expected to handle more than one million tonnes of freight annually, providing a significant boost to the local economy and UK air cargo capacity.
