Exciting future with modernisation and new investment
Councillors have accepted a bid from a company that wants to buy Gloucestershire Airport.
The news marks a positive step forward in the sale process.
The new owner – who bid more than the guide price of £25 million – will be named when all the necessary relevant parties involved with the sale have been informed. The new owner is strongly committed to the future running and development of the airport, and is excited by the opportunity to expand the site’s business parks and attract new investment.
Gloucestershire Airport is jointly owned by Cheltenham Borough and Gloucester City Councils, and the site was marketed for sale in October last year.
The preferred bidder was agreed by Gloucester members at a full council meeting of Gloucester City Council on 26 June 2025. Cheltenham Borough Council’s leader, Councillor Rowena Hay, as shareholder had authority at Cheltenham, to make a final decision on the preferred bidder.
Councillor Rowena Hay, leader at Cheltenham Borough Council said: “This week marks a really positive milestone as we have been able to formally agree on a preferred bidder for the sale of the airport. Whilst we cannot name the bidder for the moment, for reasons relating to commercial confidentiality, we are really excited for what’s in store for the site. There is so much opportunity to build on the airport’s successes and we have every confidence that the new owner will really invest and unlock the potential for this site.”
Leader of Gloucester City Council, Councillor Jeremy Hilton, said: “The decision of the city council to agree to the sale of Gloucestershire Airport, was the correct one to make. The airport’s long-term future is dependent on the private investment the new owners will make into the aviation infrastructure at Staverton. Both councils have carried out a robust assessment of the bids and we have agreed on the preferred owner. It will ensure that Gloucestershire Airport continues to be the premier general aviation airport in the country.”
Jason Ivey, Managing Director, Gloucestershire Airport, added: “On behalf of Gloucestershire Airport, we are delighted with the news that both councils have accepted a bid for the purchase of the airport. This is a pivotal moment in the history of Gloucestershire Airport and my team, and I are looking forward to implementing the development plans of our new owners.”
Established in the 1930s, the airport’s location between Gloucester and Cheltenham makes it a perfect gateway for business travel, flight training and private aviation.
Both councils took the decision to consider the disposal of the airport as it needs a large investment to be able to continue to operate successfully and to drive its growth.
