Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: October 1, 2024

Purpose: Report detailing the Council's commitment to maximise the economic impact of the Airport, ensure the continuing operation of Cornwall Airport Newquay, minimise the financial burden on the Cornish taxpayer and attract investment to the Airport estate.   Part 2 (exempt) appendices expected.

Content: It was moved by Councillor Frost, seconded by Councillor Widdon and   RESOLVED that   1.  Investment in Cornwall Airport: The Committee welcomed future investment in Cornwall Airport and its surrounding estate, including the possibility of partnerships and joint ventures. However, it strongly believed that these options must include retaining public ownership and control of the airport.   It was moved by Councillor Frost, seconded by Councillor Martin and   RESOLVED that   2.  Concerns Over Negotiation Process: The Committee expressed serious concerns about the ongoing negotiation process regarding the airport.  Despite the confidential debate significant details remain unclear. The timing, with only months until a new Council administration, was unfortunate.  Moreover, the Committee was troubled by the apparent lack of audit and risk assessment, which it considered essential.  At this point, there is no clarity regarding the scale or nature of any proposed developments.   It was moved by Councillor Frost, seconded by Councillor Thomas and   RESOLVED that   3.  Recommendation for Deferral: The Committee recommend that any final decision on the airport be deferred until the next administration. This would allow sufficient time to enable clearer outcomes & further scrutiny by this Committee, ensuring a well-informed and considered decision. On being put to the vote the motion was lost.   It was moved by Councillor Dwelly, seconded by Councillor Guest and   RESOLVEDthat   4.   The Committee is reassured that any proposed deal will be brought back to the Committee in advance of any decision for scrutiny.       ACTION:   1.   The Managing Director, Newquay Airport agreed to provide data from benchmarking work done on other airports to Cllr Frost, with a copy provided to the committee.   2.  That the Committee establishes a task and finish group to undertake an inquiry ,the scope of which will be to explore: (i)  Lessons from other airports by way of benchmarking and comparison, including the issue of public ownership; and (ii)  Options to maximise the success of the airport within the context of Cornwall Council control and ownership   Subject to the terms of reference and other matters referred to in the approved Overview and Scrutiny Protocol being finalised through agreement between the Chairman and Vice-Chairman of this Committee, the Strategic Director for Sustainable Growth and Development (or their nominee), and the Statutory Scrutiny Officer (or their nominee) and membership of the group shall be: (i)  Councillor Frost, Chairing; and The other Members of the group being Councillors Perry, Dwelly, Channon and Williams