After a year of uncertainty and political shifts, the future of RAF Scampton appears to be on a more promising trajectory – but residents say action is urgently needed to bring these plans to life.
In September 2024, a significant turn of events saw the government abandon its controversial plan to house asylum seekers on the historic site, following the Labour Party’s rise to power. The site, once home to the iconic Dambusters and the Red Arrows, is now at the centre of plans for regeneration and investment, with West Lindsey District Council leading the charge to secure its future.
Council officials have indicated that the former airbase could become a hub for aviation, heritage, and housing development, potentially adding £300 million to the local economy. However, with these plans still in the early stages, locals are calling for swift decisions and clear action.
Tony Somerville, a resident who lives in close proximity to the base, is cautiously optimistic. “I’m fairly hopeful for the future,” he said. “There’s a lot of relief that the government’s plans have stopped. But it will take time to sort through the legal and physical mess left behind.”
Indeed, Lincoln MP Hamish Falconer (Lab) recently commented that the site was “left in a physical and legal mess” by the previous government, a challenge that could take some time to resolve. But while the political landscape has shifted, there are concerns that progress may stall without quick action.
The proposed development, which is expected to transform RAF Scampton into a dynamic and economically beneficial site, has left some residents with mixed feelings. One local voice expressed concern about the impact on infrastructure, particularly the safety of the A15, which runs close to the site. “Pulling out onto the A15 is horrendous,” they said, referencing two recent accidents. “It’s not safe at all.”
Another resident echoed these worries, adding, “We don’t want to see delays. The Home Office and West Lindsey District haven’t come to an agreement on who will own it yet. We hope that access to the investment which was originally promised is still there.”
There’s also growing concern about the potential for overdevelopment of housing. The local GP surgery and school in Welton, just a short distance from the base, would need significant expansion to accommodate a population increase. “It needs another entrance, as the one onto the A15 is dreadfully dangerous,” another resident pointed out.
Beyond housing and infrastructure, preserving the site’s rich heritage is a major priority for many. One local voiced their sadness about RAF Scampton’s history being scattered in private collections, citing an auction of historical items previously held there. “It’s such a shame that it’s not still at Scampton,” they lamented. “Hopefully something can happen before it’s all gone.”
West Lindsey District Council remains committed to its regeneration vision. Leader Trevor Young (Lib Dem) stated, “RAF Scampton is a site of immense historical and economic importance, and we remain determined to pursue our original vision and ensure the site is used in a way that respects its legacy and supports sustainable growth.”
For now, the future of RAF Scampton hinges on the council’s ability to secure ownership and funding. The council hopes to move forward with development plans once the site is officially surplus to the Home Office’s requirements. However, the timeline for any sale or agreement remains uncertain.
As 2024 draws to a close, residents remain hopeful but anxious for the swift action needed to transform RAF Scampton into the thriving centre they envision. Whether this will be a year of true progress or further delays remains to be seen.
