The future of Penzance’s helicopter links to the Isles of Scilly looks secure after Tesco announced it has withdrawn its opposition for a new British International Helicopters site in the town.

The supermarket giant had been pursuing a judicial review against the planning permission granted for the project.

The decision to withdraw the review has followed a commitment from British International Helicopters (BIH) to continue helicopter services between Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, if all legal challenges are dropped.

The commitment was made in a formal letter to Tesco, dated 17th August, from Peter Shawyer,  the chairman of BIH, on behalf of the board.

 

Michael Kissman, Community Director at Tesco said: "This commitment from BIH means we can withdraw our Judicial Review immediately.

"Our aim was simply to ensure that planning law was applied properly and there was a commitment that BIH would continue the helicopter service. We now have that commitment. that

"We know how important this service is to our staff, customers and local people. I hope circumstances allow BIH to deliver on their promises to keep their helicopters flying."

 

The decision has been welcomed by Cornwall Council and the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership which have been working with partners to try and secure the future of the Isles of Scilly helicopter link.

Chris Ridgers, the Council’s portfolio holder for economy and regeneration, said: “This is very good news.

“Effective, all year round transport links are vital to the economy of the Isles of Scilly and to the wellbeing of the islanders.

“The helicopter service is also an important factor in the economy of West Cornwall.

“We have always maintained that we have acted within planning law and are pleased that Tesco has now withdrawn its judicial review.”

Chris Pomfret, Chairman of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “I am very pleased that Tesco has changed its mind on this issue.

“The importance of good transport links between the Islands and the mainland was identified as a key factor in the growth of their economy in the LEP strategy.

“I wrote to the Chief Executive of Tesco asking him to think about the impact of their action on the local residents and welcome this decision.

“However I am aware that there is still one application for a judicial review in place which has been submitted by an individual.

“Following Tesco’s decision this is now the only thing that stands in the way of resolving this matter.”