Doncaster Sheffield Airport is absolutely vital to the South Yorkshire Economy says GMB Union

The closure of Doncaster Sheffield Airport is the result of narrow minded failings of fat cat business owners, GMB has said.

The airport's owners, the Peel Group, has announced they would be winding down operations from the week commencing 31 October.

The South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority and Doncaster Council have offered to cover the airports operating losses for up the 13 months while a buyer is found.

However, the Peel Group has turned the offer down, saying it cannot ‘responsibly accept public money' - despite the massive economic benefits keeping the airport open has to the region.

Sarah Barnes GMB organiser said:

"Doncaster Sheffield Airport is absolutely vital to the South Yorkshire economy, providing hundreds of direct and supply chain jobs as well as an international transport hub.

"It's hard to think of a better use of public money than keeping it open until a buyer can be found.

"Peel Group's decision to close, despite the offer of help, is a narrow minded failure by fat cat bosses to see the big picture.

"The airports closure will be a devastating blow to workers, their families and the wider community."