Published on 28th January 2026
Cheltenham Borough Council and Gloucester City Council, as joint shareholders of Gloucestershire Airport, are in final stages of completing legal requirements for its proposed sale to Horizon Group.
A spokesperson said: “The sale of an airport is an extremely complex undertaking and naturally takes time. However, we are now in a position to move toward completing the deal, and we anticipate bringing the process to a conclusion shortly. Communication with the Horizon Group remains constructive and will be crucial as all parties continue to work collaboratively towards the completion of the sale.”
The 375 acre site, at Staverton, operates as a key regional aviation hub, supporting general aviation, training, business flights and a range of associated commercial activities. The site includes two established business parks and has planning consent for additional employment space, making it one of the area’s most strategically important economic assets.
The Horizon Group, established specifically to bring forward a long‑term vision for the airport, was selected as the preferred buyer following a competitive process. As part of the proposed transaction, the group has set out plans aimed at safeguarding aviation at the site while enabling wider economic development and investment.
Both councils have been engaged in detailed negotiations with the prospective purchaser to ensure that all legal, financial and operational requirements are fully satisfied. This includes complex due diligence, regulatory considerations and ensuring continuity of services critical to airport users and on‑site businesses.
Both councils remain focused on concluding the transaction in a manner that secures the long‑term future of the airport, supports continued economic growth, and delivers value for local taxpayers.
