The future of Shoreham airport looks secure as Brighton City Airport (BCAL) plans to take over operations. The move is subject to contracts and follows successful negotiations with Brighton and Hove City Council and Worthing Borough Council, joint owners of the airport. BCAL has also submitted plans to secure the sustainable and profitable future of the airport. It plans for improvements which are designed to protect, preserve and enhance the airport as an asset for the local, business and aviation community.

BCAL, founded in July last year, has managed airside operations since August 2013 and has transferred existing airport employees to BCAL under TUPE, to ensure that there are no redundancies and to secure local jobs. With revenue and aircraft movements up, BCAL is very positive about the future for Shoreham airport, one of the busiest in the UK in terms of movements, including take offs and landings.

Managing director Jonathan Candelon said: “BCAL works closely with the airport stakeholders and we have implemented numerous, positive changes to improve efficiency and safeguard the future of the airport. With key investments planned for the main Grade II* listed terminal building and the municipal hangar, we plan to commence work within six months of contracts being signed.”

John Mitchell, Director for Communities at Worthing Council added; “Brighton and Hove City Council and Worthing Borough Council have been working with Albemarle Shoreham Airport Limited and Brighton City Airport Limited to explore new management arrangements that will protect the future of the Airport and secure much needed investment in its unique facilities. We believe that the current proposals represent the best opportunity to achieve these aims.”

Geoff Raw, executive director environment, development and housing at Brighton and Hove City Council, commented: “This is a superb opportunity to see the airport at Shoreham grow into a sustainable business which creates jobs and realises the sites potential while protecting its heritage.”