North Yorkshire Airfield Redevelopment Receives Council Approval

Councillors have granted approval for the redevelopment of an airfield in North Yorkshire, a site that has been the subject of prolonged planning disputes. Permission has been issued to upgrade the facilities at Bagby Airfield, located near Thirsk, to enhance its suitability for private aircraft undertaking international journeys. This decision follows years of legal conflicts, which encompassed multiple public inquiries, compensation payments to residents by the former Hambleton District Council, and the relocation of the Yorkshire Air Ambulance’s base from the premises. Under the plans endorsed on Thursday, existing hangars are slated for demolition and reconstruction, and a new museum hangar will be erected. Accommodation for pilots and aircrew is also to be established, while retrospective permission was granted for a recently constructed clubhouse and control tower. Additional improvements will include the installation of a charging point for electric aircraft and various landscaping efforts. The application was submitted by owner Martin Scott, who aims to transform the airfield from one primarily used by hobbyist aircraft and microlights into a higher-quality facility for modern turbo-prop aircraft, which are noted for being quieter and having lower emissions. According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, planning officer Craig Allison informed councillors in a report: “The applicant advises that the transition is predicted on providing upgraded high-quality hangarage capable of accommodating the more modern aircraft safely and securely.” He stated that facilities would be provided to accommodate UK Border Force inspections for inbound and outbound flights, along with upgraded taxiways and a safe and secure runway capable of operating in all-weathers. “The applicant sets out that the proposed transition will secure greater levels of income, supporting the future sustainability of the airfield,” the report further indicated. It also mentioned that these changes are expected to lead to fewer aircraft movements from the airfield and a reduction in aircraft circling over nearby residential properties. For more than a decade, the airfield has been the focus of planning debates and complaints regarding noise from residents in the villages of Bagby and Thirkleby. Alyson Baker, who represents the area on the council, expressed her hope that the approval of these plans would signify a turning point. She commented: “I welcome the fact that hopefully this will move the relationship, that has been not very good, forward.” The application was approved by members, with six votes in favor and one abstention.