Stobart Group revealed as operator of publicly owned Durham Tees Valley Airport

Following its return to public ownership, Durham Tees Valley Airport will have Stobart Group as its operator, Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen has confirmed.

The Mayor announced that the infrastructure and support services company would take over as operator as part of a rescue strategy to turn the airport around, following financial struggles and the threat of closure.

Stobart Group will be responsible for overseeing the operations and strategic development of the airport, as well as implementing a 10 Year Rescue Plan to increase passenger numbers to 1.4million, secure a low cost carrier by 2022, and drive the creation of 7,600 jobs.

During the joint press conference, Mr Houchen also stated that a prior planning application for 350 homes outside the airport terminal had been “withdrawn” and said that “there will be no residential development on this airport site” as long as he is mayor.

Commenting on Stobart Group’s appointment as operator, Mr Houchen said: “Stobart is a huge company with significant experience, knowledge and expertise in the aviation sector.

He continued: “They’re no stranger to turning around airports – just look at what they have achieved at London Southend and Carlisle Lake District Airport. They have the experience, credibility and relationships with airlines to make Teesside fly again and they’re the right partner for Teesside.”