Chamber’s Open Letter to Cornwall Council

Cornwall Chamber of Commerce has written an open letter to the Council expressing its concerns about the selection of a preferred partner to run Cornwall Newquay Airport.

While the identity of the Preferred Partner has not been made public by the Board, it is widely understood to be Westcore, an American real estate investment business with a European wing.

The airport served 440,000 passengers in the last year and contributes around £72 million to the local economy, but has continuously operated at a loss, the Council’s grant for 2024/2025 could be more than £4 million.

The Council therefore sought a partner to develop the 650 acre site and take on the financial burden of running an airport.

While Cornwall Council has insisted the airport’s future is not in doubt, Cornwall’s business community says it is unhappy it has not been consulted on its plans.

In an open letter to Cornwall Council, new Cornwall Chamber CEO John Brown writes:

Dear Cornwall Council

I am writing to express the deep disappointment of the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce at the recent decision to select Westcore as the preferred partner for the management of Newquay Airport. This decision, made without consulting the business community and behind closed doors, is both unacceptable and opaque. It ignores the vital role the private sector plays in our regional economy.

Of particular concern is that Westcore, the chosen partner, appears to have limited experience in managing airports. Competence in airport management should be the primary criterion in selecting a partner for an asset as critical as Newquay Airport, with property development a secondary consideration.

Cornwall Chamber of Commerce is prepared to gather insights and views from leaders in the business, higher education and charity sectors to advise the Council on what we believe to be essential in selecting a suitable partner.

Our key demands are as follows:

• Immediate Suspension of Current Decision: Stop any further progress with Westcore until a thorough review and consultation process has been conducted.
• Transparent consultation process: Engage in transparent and inclusive consultation with the business community and other key stakeholders before finalizing any decision.
• Partner Selection Criteria: Ensure that the primary criteria for selecting a partner is demonstrated expertise in airport management.
• Stakeholder Advisory Group: Establish a panel of representatives from across the Cornish industry to provide ongoing advice and insight into the selection process.
• Public Accountability: Commit to regular updates and open communication with the public and business community about progress and decisions relating to Newquay Airport.

Reliable and accessible transportation infrastructure is the lifeblood of a thriving local economy. Decisions on the future of Newquay Airport, which involve significant taxpayer investment, must be made through deep, meaningful and transparent consultation with all stakeholders who have a stake in its success.

Regards,

John Brown
CEO, Cornwall Chamber of Commerce

A final report on all aspects of the agreement is expected to be presented to the Council’s Cabinet in the autumn. It is unclear whether that report will be made public.