Weston Airport is set to continue in the aviation industry.  Weston Airport, which lies between Leixlip and Celbridge, just off Exit 5 on the N4, has recently been purchased for continued development in the aviation sector.  The airport, which was founded as a grass strip aerodrome in 1931, was operated down through the years by Darby Kennedy and further development was carried out by Jim Mansfield, before going into receivership in 2011.  

The overall property extends to approximately 256 acres incorporating in the region of 9,250 sq. m (99,567 sq. ft.) of operations building, traffic control tower and three aircraft hangars. 

In addition,to the airport and its ancillary buildings, the property comprises Westonpark House, a fine period house of 428 sq. m. approximately together with 28 stables, private paddocks and various outbuildings on 11.33 ha approximately.

The sale was handled by Jonathan Preston, Jill Horan and Mark Reynolds of Savills Development & Consultancy Division. 

Jonathan Preston, Head of Development in Savills said that “Weston was offered to the market at a realistic asking price and unsurprisingly it attracted exceptional interest during the sale process due to its unique investment offering. The market has not seen an airport of this size openly offered to the market in Ireland or the UK for a number of years. Due to the unique nature of the property and the competitive asking price there was significant national and international interest with over 200 initial enquiries. Interest came from a wide range of parties including those in the aviation industry and others simply seeking an investment.

The initial asking price was €3 million and it was subsequently sold following receipt of best bids. The purchaser, Brian Conneely of Galway – based Conneely Builders, is now understood to be underway with his own individual plan for the airport. Brian Conneely & Co. is a progressive building & civil engineering company, operating throughout Ireland. We wish Brian every success and are confident the airport will continue to flourish.” 

A spokesman for the purchasers said this week, “We are delighted to have purchased this asset with a proud tradition in Irish aviation and we look forward to developing the airport and its facilities as an executive airport with a strong focus on aviation education courses and innovative aviation projects. The property, which comprises of more than 250 acres, has tremendous potential for development. Our concentration initially will be on supporting the existing businesses at the airport and attracting innovative enterprises and partnerships in the aviation sector with job creating potential.”