A decision on the sale of RAF Scampton is expected within weeks, according to the council which is keen to buy it.
The former airbase near Lincoln is being sold by the Home Office, which hasn’t released whether they will offer it to the council or a private investor.
West Lindsey District Council has confirmed that Scampton Holdings, the company it has chosen to launch its regeneration plans, is still committed to them.
High-profile investors are apparently interested in the proposals, which it’s claimed would generate £2 billion for the local economy over the next 15 years.
Peter Hewitt, the chairman of Scampton Holdings, said: “Our proposed redevelopment represents an extraordinary and likely unique opportunity for both West Lindsey and Lincolnshire.
“It offers the potential to regenerate, reinvigorate and reposition the region as a leader in advanced defence, aerospace and innovation.
“The vision for Scampton to become part of the UK’s Critical National Infrastructure is remarkable in its scale and ambition.”
Councillor Moira Westley, deputy leader of the council, said: “RAF Scampton is an incredibly important site for West Lindsey, and we are absolutely committed to doing what we can in securing the very best outcome for our district and our communities.
“It’s been inspiring to see the vision taking shape particularly the care shown for our heritage and the significant investments already made. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity, and the potential here is truly exciting.”
RAF Scampton has been in limbo since the Labour government cancelled plans to host asylum seekers there.
Although a decision may be imminent, any sale would likely take several months.
Lincolnshire County Council’s Growth Committee was previously told it was likely to be mid-2026 before it was handed over, with one councillor describing the timeline as “disappointing”.
A report released by Scampton Holdings estimates that the regeneration project would create 3,600 jobs, with 800 of them being high-tech roles in defence and aviation.
It has raised the possibility of an annual airshow, and said a drone manufacturer was amongst the interested defence companies.
