QNH has hit the nail on the head, the land is worth more to the operators as a buisness park then as an airport but they can't just close it otherwise the council will do their nut!
However if it fails as an airport the council will put their hands up and hand it over. That is why the operators are cutting the runway in half but not closing it. It is why they are building offices on the climb out - it won't stop you flying but you would be mad to do it! It is also the reason the operators are trying to reduce the car parking that each of the clubs/schools have, so as to limit buisness.
Stinks if you ask me
CBK