Pilot has heard from the Light Aircraft Association and other sources that Welwyn and Hatfield Council have announced a review of the their housing plans that may lead to a reprieve for the airfield, which until its forced closure by the land owners in late 2014, was a key location for sport flying in the north London and Hertfordshire areas.

The decision was made after strong representations made by the LAA and other aviation bodies, working together under the umbrella of the General Aviation Awareness Council. Other objectors to the closing of the airfield included local residents and Sport England.

“This is of course, only a first step” said Steve Slater, who has been a strong supporter of Panshanger Aerodrome, both as LAA Chief Executive and previously, as vice-Chairman of GAAC. “The Council now hopes to pursue a mixed use option, with general aviation activities being continued alongside a smaller number of new houses on part of the airfield site. This is an option advocated by the Government, via both the DfT and DCLG, as well as local MPs including Grant Shapps. We hope by continuing to work together we can secure a sustainable long-term future for an important and delightful grass airfield in a key location”.

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