Cornwall Council’s Cabinet member for economy is to take up a new role at Cornwall Airport Newquay overseeing the future of Spaceport Cornwall.
Louis Gardner, who is standing down from his Cabinet role of three years at the end of this week, has been appointed Head of Future Air and Space.
It has also been revealed that he will not seek re-election as councillor for the Newquay Central and Pentire division at the council elections on May 1.
The appointment has been made by Corserv Solutions, the Cornwall Council-owned limited company that provides infrastructure, engineering, transport and other essential services to the Duchy.
Among the organisations it has responsibility for are Cormac and Cornwall Airport Newquay.
Corserv said Mr Gardner would bring “a wealth of experience to the role,” adding: “Louis will be instrumental in driving forward the commercial development of Spaceport Cornwall, ensuring its long-term viability as a hub for innovation in the aerospace sector.”
It comes as the airport looks to expand its role in the future of aviation and space technology.
Neil Edmond, CEO of Corserv, said: "Louis’s experience and strategic vision will be invaluable as we continue to develop Spaceport Cornwall into a commercially sustainable and thriving enterprise.
“We’re excited to have him on board as we shape the future of air and space in the UK."
However, the news has not gone down well with some councillors from other parties. Read more about their reaction here: 'Something smells fishy': Concern as cabinet member resigns for Spaceport role
Mr Gardner is a former director of Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership Limited.
He also has his own limited company, TOCH Newquay Ltd, specialising in food and beverages, of which he is joint company director.
Mr Gardner said today: "I am incredibly excited to take on the role of Head of Future Air and Space at Cornwall Airport Newquay.
“This opportunity allows me to be at the forefront of innovation in aviation and space exploration, helping to shape the future of the sector in Cornwall.
“I look forward to working with a talented team to enable the development of new, sustainable technologies and initiatives that will transform our airport and the region.
“It’s a thrilling time for Cornwall, and I’m eager to contribute to the growth of this exciting industry while continuing to make a positive impact on our community."
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Cornwall Council has announced that as a result of the appointment, Cllr Gardner will be stepping down from his role as Cabinet member for economy at the end of this week.
His portfolio will be covered by council leader Linda Taylor during the next seven weeks leading up to the local council elections in Cornwall on May 1.
Cllr Taylor said: “I am sorry to see Louis step down, he has been a tireless champion for the business community in Cornwall since he took on the role in 2022.
“He will bring a wealth of political and defence experience to this new role.
“With just a few weeks left until the election I have decided to oversee the portfolio until then and will ensure we continue to work every day to build the thriving, sustainable Cornwall we all want."
Cllr Gardner added: “It has been a real honour to serve on the Cabinet for the past three years, and I am proud of the work we have done to build a Cornwall where people can start well, live well and age well."
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