Jonathan Djanogly, MP for Huntingdon, and Huntingdonshire District Council (HDC) Executive Leader Cllr Ryan Fuller, yesterday (January 30) met with the Secretary of State for Defence, the Rt Hon Ben Wallace MP to discuss the future of the former airfield site at Wyton in Huntingdonshire.
Along with Huntingdonshire’s other MP, Shailesh Vara, the four met to discuss the potential relocation of Marshall Aerospace and Defence Group (MADG) to the site as well as plans to develop the site as outlined in HDC's Local Plan to 2036.
In 2019 MADG announced that they would be relocating from their current base at Cambridge Airport in order to meet ambitious growth plans. The former airfield site at Wyton, which is in Mr Vara’s constituency, is one of two that has been shortlisted. MADG would be looking to retain the majority of the 1,500 workforce whilst also looking for future recruitment. Many of the workforce already live within Huntingdonshire which would mean they would have a reduced commute time and a reduced impact on the climate.
Following the meeting, Cllr Fuller said:
“I welcomed the opportunity to meet with the Secretary of State alongside our local MPs to discuss our ambition that the Wyton site secures a proper legacy for our places and people. Getting this site right is a once in a generation opportunity to deliver a visionary development that makes a lasting contribution to the economic success of Huntingdonshire, and also creates real choices for our existing and new communities in how they work, live and travel.”
Jonathan Djanogly MP added:
“I do remain concerned at the potential negative implications for local residents if we see large scale residential development without adequate infrastructure and not taking environmental concerns into account. A mixed use residential and employment alternative would seem to me to present a better option.”
Shailesh Vara MP said:
“I am grateful to Ben Wallace MP, the Defence Secretary, for making the time to see us on this very important local issue despite his busy schedule. The potential relocation of Marshalls to Wyton is a huge opportunity for Huntingdonshire and it would be a great boost to local jobs and the economy. HDC have done a great deal of work in showcasing the opportunities that are available in Huntingdonshire and I will continue to work closely with Cllr Fuller and his colleagues to ensure that we move forward to secure the best outcome possible.”
