Kent's Manston Airport redevelopment moves forward

By Sam Pither

22 August 2022

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Plans to build a carbon net zero freight and passenger hub at the former Manston Airport in Kent have taken a step forward today following a Development Consent Order granted by the Secretary of State.

It means that Riveroak Strategic Partners, who are overseeing and funding the development, can move ahead with the £500 million investment.

Along with new cargo facilities and an updated passenger terminal, the redevelopment will see access to the site improved as well as funding for the Hurricane and Spitfire museums located at the airfield.

Since closing in 2014, the airport has served as a lorry park during disruption at ports in Kent, including Operation Brock following Brexit-related delays.

The project also represents economic opportunities for the region, creating 23,000 jobs across East Kent and the UK within 20 years of operation.

RSP will also look to engage local businesses in the redevelopment work and ongoing management of the airport, making the airport provide tangible economic, employment and investment opportunities to the region.

Tony Freudmann, Director of RSP, said: “I would like to pay tribute to the extraordinary army of Manston Airport supporters who have never given up hope of seeing new life breathed into this historic aviation asset.

“And, I would also like to thank our two dedicated local MPs, Sir Roger Gale and Craig Mackinlay, as well as the thousands of supporters who have supported us from the start of the DCO process and have long shared our bold and ambitious vision for the airport.”

The coming weeks will see the commencement of surveys, planning and design work with work hoped to begin next year ahead of an estimated early-2025 opening date.

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By Sam Pither

Sam is the Regional Editor of Biz News, responsible for both Hampshire and Dorset.

A new recruit to journalism, Sam started writing for the Business Magazine as a freelancer in May of 2022 after completing his degree in English at University College London. His passion for local businesses and ability to tell a story soon caught the attention of the publication’s management team and have led to his meteoric rise.

Sam, who lives in central Reading, takes a particular interest in technology, gaming and food and drink, having been a chef before starting his degree.