From the local "Doncaster Free Press" - 14/3:
"PEEL Airports called for a quick decision as the public inquiry into Finningley Airport came to a close.
The developer said that an early decision was needed so that development of the site could begin in time for the 2004 summer season.
Peter Nears, director of land and planning at Peel said: "We are pleased with the way the inquiry has proceeded and are confident of a positive outcome. We are looking forward to an early decision so we, and the airlines and tour operators who have expressed an interest in flying from Finningley, can get on with serving the requirements of local businesses and holidaymakers."
The inquiry, which has been held at the Earl of Doncaster Hotel, was due to close yesterday after six months, as government inspector Graham Self heard the closing submissions from the backers of the development.
Andrew Bosmans, of grassroots organisation FLY - Finningley Locals say Yes - said: "The RAF was a source of community pride and when RAF left Finningley we lost something that people could take pride in."
He said that the area had suffered a loss in community spirit following the miners' strikes in the 1980s, and added: "The new development's existence will put the area on the map and it will provide a positive image for Doncaster. It is a unique opportunity."
He also said that public support for the development was "overwhelming" and that 21,577 letters of support were received by FLY whereas the opponents of the development only received 505 letters against the proposals.
He added: "Our petition of support had more than 40,000 signatures."
Counsel for Doncaster Council, Simon Pickles, told the inquiry: "The benefits must be weighed against the proposal's adverse environmental and other impacts and the significance that the objectives of policy suggest should be attributed to each.
"DMBC is very keen to support Doncaster Finningley Airport, and regards this decision as of enormous significance and invites the Secretary of State to grant planning permission subject to conditions."
Peel Airports spokesman Brian Ash QC said: "There is a powerful case in terms of aviation need but that case is substantially reinforced by the other matters of regeneration, employment and sustainable travel modes. Our submission is that, in aggregate, the need case is overwhelming.
"Peel has an unchallenged and unrivalled commitment to and track record in regeneration. It has specific expertise in the operation of an airport in an Objective 1 area in Liverpool and has been conspicuously successful in achieving economic regeneration, social inclusion and increased passenger convenience and choice."