Independent Expert Advice for the Solent Airport Strategic Review

Tender description

<p>The Council has a clear published vision for the development of Solent Airport. However, since it was published in 2015 and refreshed in 2018, many local, national and global factors have changed. In particular, COVID19 and Brexit will have a significant impact on the economy. Independent expert advice is required on the Council&rsquo;s proposals for development at Solent Airport and their deliverability in the light of changing demand and resources. Independent expert advice is also required to develop an Investment Plan for the airport to align the Council&rsquo;s proposals with available financing. The Council&rsquo;s contract with the operator of Solent Airport ends on 31 March 2021 with an option to extend for up to 5 years. Given the current economic uncertainties, the Council will extend this contract for 12 months, pending the outcome of this exercise and then consider the most appropriate way forward. An independent review of the specification of the current contract is required, with recommendations about what any new tender specification should include. Lastly, the Council wishes to understand the risks and opportunities to the Council of the current business approach, with a recommendation as to how any risks could be mitigated. This independent expert advice will inform a strategic review of the Council&rsquo;s activities at Solent Airport.</p> Keywords: Aviation, Advice , Consultancy, Strategic, Review