I've read this kind of argument at least twice before; think BAe/Airbus; think Hatfield, think Woodford.
Bottom line. 100 years of aviation history means squat. Large pieces of real estate for building homes means a lot more and brings in the cash. I personally saw Hatfield go from a thriving community to a ghost town in the space of 12 months.
I know you've gotta give it your best shot but prepare yourselves for the worst case scenario.
Whatever the final outcome, good luck!