RAF Scampton placed on open market as council prepares bid for site’s future

The former RAF Scampton has officially been placed on the open market by the Home Office - a move being welcomed locally as a major step towards securing a long-term future for the site.

West Lindsey District Council says the decision draws a clear line under previous proposals to use the base for asylum accommodation and allows full focus to shift to regeneration and protection of its aviation heritage.

“The confirmation that RAF Scampton is now on the open market is an important moment for our community and for this nationally significant site, " said Council leader, Jackie Brockway.

“We have always been clear that Scampton deserves a future that reflects both its strategic importance and its remarkable heritage.

RAF Scampton has played a key role in the UK’s defence story, with heritage that resonates both locally and nationally.

The council says those strengths - alongside the community’s long-standing connection to the base - are clearly reflected in the sales documentation.

Although ownership remains with the Home Office, a three-stage disposal process is now under way:

Expressions of interest invited by 6 March

Submission of detailed business plans and financial offers from shortlisted bidders

A clarification stage leading to selection of a preferred purchaser

Sally Grindrod-Smith, Director of Planning, Regeneration and Communities at West Lindsey District Council, said the Home Office aims to complete the transaction by November 2026.

“Our next step will be to seek approval from councillors to submit a formal expression of interest, working closely with our development partner, Scampton Holdings Ltd," she said.

Scampton Holdings has developed a redevelopment plan, positioning the site as part of the UK’s critical national infrastructure.