Councillors have unanimously voted in favour of progressing with the site acquisition and partnering with an investor to deliver a regeneration and redevelopment project worth an estimated £300 million.
The decision was made by West Lindsey District Council at its Corporate Policy and Resources Committee, held on 9 February 2023.
Since the closure of the base was announced in 2018, the council have worked extensively with the Ministry of Defence, local stakeholders and the community to ensure the best possible outcome for the Scampton site and its future positioning within the wider district and county economy.
A specific RAF Scampton policy was incorporated into the Central Lincolnshire Local Plan review to ensure the safeguarding and sustainable regeneration of the site post closure. At the heart of this policy is the need to holistically plan for site wide regeneration that delivers benefit to the existing community at RAF Scampton whilst providing an opportunity policy to secure regeneration and economic growth. The Examination in Public of the revised Local Plan was completed during November and December 2022 with adoption expected spring 2023.
Leader of West Lindsey District Council, Cllr Owen Bierley said:
“This landmark decision means that we are able to progress through the required legal contracting procedures to complete the acquisition of the site from the Ministry of Defence. Through our engagement with the local community and stakeholders, we have developed a vision for a bright future for RAF Scampton.
“As we approach the significant milestone of the 80th anniversary of Operation Chastise – the Dambusters Raid and will be remembering the important role that RAF Scampton played, the council are proud to be taking this huge step to preserve and enhance the heritage of the site. We have the resources in place to deliver and look forward to working in earnest with all parties involved in making this happen.”
The council will now progress the final elements of the procurement process according to the public procurement regulations under Project Ref: DN620845.
Further details will be released in due course.