Cornwall Council U-Turn: Airport Sale and Car Park Plans Scrapped

Backlash from locals prompts new leadership to reverse major asset transfer proposals

Cornwall Council’s new Cabinet has scrapped plans to sell Cornwall Airport Newquay and to transfer 19 Council-owned car parks to Corserv Solutions Ltd.

The proposals, made by the previous administration, were dropped following a review by the new leadership team. The Cabinet says the move is aimed at protecting key public assets and ensuring they remain accountable to the people of Cornwall.

“We’ve listened to residents”

Councillor Leigh Frost, Leader of Cornwall Council, said:
“We’ve listened to the views of our residents and taken action to put Cornwall first. Reversing these decisions protects our airport and car parks for the benefit of our communities, our economy, and our future. This is about common sense, getting back to basics and making sure our public assets work for the people of Cornwall.”

Concerns over price hikes and accountability

Councillor Adam Paynter, Deputy Leader, highlighted strong public opposition to the car park changes.
“The backlash on the car park plans was clear – residents feared hidden fee hikes and reduced accountability. And with the airport, there was no guarantee that privatisation would deliver long-term benefits for travellers or local businesses. That’s why we’re reversing both decisions.”

Keeping control local

Councillor Dan Rogerson, Portfolio Holder for Transport, said keeping car parks under Council control will support local businesses.
“Our car parks are important for helping town centres and local businesses thrive. By keeping them under Council control, we can focus on what matters to people – fair prices, good services, and decisions made in the best interest of the residents of Cornwall.”

Focus on the future of public services

Councillor Tim Dwelly, Portfolio Holder for Resources, stressed the importance of local oversight.
“Our airport is vital for keeping Cornwall connected, supporting tourism, and creating jobs. These assets belong to the people of Cornwall, and we have a duty to protect them. Passing control of them to outside organisations would have risked losing local oversight and public trust. We’re now focused on finding the best way to manage these services, so they stay affordable, sustainable, and accountable to the people they serve.”

No alternative proposals have been announced yet, but the new Cabinet says it remains committed to ensuring services stay in public hands wherever possible.