Is it not the possible situation that it is actually the Kemble airfield owners that started the development plan ball rolling?
'Plans are in place which propose the development of privately-owned Cotswold Airport (formerly Kemble) for 2,000 homes and other services, creating a ‘new, sustainable village’.
FLYER contacted Cotswold Airport management for a comment on the plans, but were referred to Tristan Fitzgerald Associates (TFA) who issued us with a press release which explains, ‘As part of the Local Plan process, Commercial Estates Group (CEG), a company who actively develop and manage land and property in the UK are making representations to show how Kemble Airfield can help the council sustainably meet its housing supply.’
When FLYER asked whether Cotswold Airport's owners were actively pursuing the development, and if CEG were working on the proposal on their behalf, TFA answered, ‘CEG are working in partnership with the landowner and have entered into a long term agreement to promote the airfield through the planning system.’
Also in the release, Matthew Tunley of CEG comments, “Kemble Airfield provides an opportunity to create a new sustainable village of around 2,000 homes alongside shops and services, education, leisure facilities and employment. This could be a very special place and deliver a wide range of benefits including parking for Kemble Station and improving broadband connectivity in surrounding villages.”
The General Aviation airport is currently occupied by aircraft hangars, two runways, and industrial and commercial units. Kemble Enterprise Park, which accommodates a wide range of business units, adjoins the site to the south. Cotswold District Council is currently consulting on the Local Plan and further consultation will take place later in the spring/summer.
A website is being constructed to include the representations made to Cotswold District Council -
Kemble Airfield site. More details as they become available.'
It's a bit like Panshanger - the owners decide to close it and then action groups spring up to keep it open....