Cornwall Council’s new cabinet has decided to scrap the planned sale of Cornwall Airport Newquay and the transfer of 19 Council-owned car parks to Corserv Solutions Ltd.
The new Cabinet has reviewed both proposals, put forward by the previous administration, and decided to cancel them in order to protect vital services and key assets that will play an important role in Cornwall’s future.
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.”
Councillor Adam Paynter, Deputy Leader of Cornwall Council, said: “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.”
Councillor Dan Rogerson, Portfolio Holder for Transport, said: “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.”
Councillor Tim Dwelly, Portfolio Holder for Resources, said: “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.”
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