Following the release of Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ first Spending Review, Doncaster Chamber has issued a clear response: while long-term ambitions are welcomed, the region’s business community needs immediate, tangible action.
Top of the agenda?
The reopening of Doncaster Sheffield Airport, which was specifically mentioned in the Chancellor’s speech. The Chamber praised this continued commitment, but called on regional leaders to unlock funding without delay.
“This isn’t just a local priority – it’s a national one,” said Dan Fell, CEO of Doncaster Chamber. “We need urgency and investment if we’re to reopen the airport and unlock Doncaster’s full economic potential.”
While investments in housing, defence, and infrastructure were acknowledged as promising, the Chamber cautioned that many businesses still face near-term struggles amid inflation, rising National Insurance, and global uncertainty.
City Centre & Community
The Chamber welcomed the new Local Growth Mission Fund, which supports high street regeneration, but warned against red tape:
“Fast-tracked funding – not slow, competitive bids – is what will rebuild pride and safety in our city centre,” Fell added.
Transport & Connectivity
With Doncaster’s strategic position as a logistics hub, clearer timelines for Northern Powerhouse Rail and local transport upgrades are urgently needed.
Skills & Workforce Development
As lead for South Yorkshire’s Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP), the Chamber applauded investment in youth training but flagged rising wage costs as a threat to recruitment:
“Funding is great – but businesses must be able to afford to grow their teams,” noted Sian Booth, Head of Policy & Partnerships.
Doncaster Chamber’s Key Asks:
- Immediate release of Local Growth Fund
- Urgent reopening of Doncaster Sheffield Airport
- Timelines and investment for Northern Powerhouse Rail
- Support for defence, energy & health sectors
- Training aligned with employer-led LSIP priorities
“Business will judge this government by what it delivers – not just what it promises,” concluded Fell.
