Closed petition: Require public consultation before airfields and aerodromes can be closed
Closed on
Airfields and aerodromes play a vital role in the UK's transportation network, economic growth, emergency services, and heritage. However, some sites may be closed and redeveloped, often without sufficient public consultation or long-term strategic consideration.
We urge Parliament to legislate or amend laws such that no airfield/aerodrome is closed & redeveloped without formal consultation involving public, industry, and government. Each site’s strategic value should be assessed, with DfT input required. We think airfields should be recognised as critical infrastructure supporting aviation, emergency services, military, and economic growth. We think preserving them is vital for the UK’s role in the Advanced Air Mobility Revolution and emerging sustainable air transport.
10,783 signatures
Petition progress
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Government responded to this petition
The Government recognises the importance of General Aviation and aerodromes, but decisions on a site's future use rest with the landowner and planning authorities through the planning system.
Read the response in full
The Government recognises the important contribution that General Aviation aerodromes make to the UK’s economy, emergency services, skills base and aviation heritage.
However, most aerodromes and airfields are privately owned and decisions around their future use, including whether to continue aviation operations, are a matter for landowners, subject to the planning system. The National Planning Policy Framework already requires planning authorities to consider the role of airports and airfields in connectivity and economic growth and strategic infrastructure when considering development proposals.
While the Government values the role of General Aviation, it considers that the current balance between private property rights, local decision making, and national aviation policy remains appropriate. We will continue to support general aviation as part of our wider aviation approach.
Department for Transport
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Petition closed
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Government will respond to this petition
This petition got more than 10,000 signatures meaning that government will respond to it.
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Petition published
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If this petition gets 10,000 signatures, government will respond to it.
If this petition gets 100,000 signatures, it will be considered for debate in Parliament.
This petition will stay open until 1 February 2026.