Manston Airport Set to Reopen for Freight After Long Battle
Manston Airport in Kent has been given the green light to reopen for air freight. The Secretary of State granted a fresh Development Consent Order (DCO) yesterday, ending years of uncertainty.
Victory for Local Campaigners
This marks a huge win for locals who fought hard to stop the site being turned into housing. The original DCO was approved in July 2020 but was knocked back in February 2021 after a Judicial Review filed by Kedton resident Jenny Dawes.
Now, thanks to Transport Minister Karl McCartney MP, the new DCO will come into effect on September 8, 2022. This lets RSP, who bought the site for £16 million, get cracking.
Ambitious Plans for Freight Hub
- RSP aims to transform Manston into a major cargo hub.
- The plan includes 19 freight stands, 4 passenger airline stands, warehousing, and fuel storage.
- Construction will take 15 years, with cargo services set to launch in early 2025.
“Today is a day to celebrate the culmination of years of campaigning,” said RSP director Tony Freudmann. “I’d like to pay tribute to the extraordinary army of Manston Airport supporters who have never given up hope.”
Carbon Net Zero and Local Boost
RSP promises Manston will be built from scratch as a Carbon Net Zero airport. It’s set to deliver a much-needed economic boost and create jobs in the region.
The company also plans to ramp up local partnerships with businesses, education, training providers, and local government to make the airport a hub of opportunity.
