Swindon & Wiltshire News
Restoration work begins on World War I aircraft hanger at Brabazon
Restoration work has started on a World War I aircraft hangar at north Bristol development Brabazon, which site owners YTL want to turn into a community hub.
The developer says Hangar 16U will have a new lease of life as a space for people to connect and unwind, with a cafe, activity rooms, and a fitness centre.
Visitors will spill out onto the 15-acre Brabazon Park to the west, with its exercise area, children’s playgrounds, and public lawns.
Then to the east, Hangar 16U will open onto a new public square, planned as a home for regular pop-up markets and street food stalls.
The hanger began life as an Aircraft Acceptance Facility for the Royal Flying Corps. The new facility needed to be close to The Bristol and Colonial Aeroplane Company, whose founder Sir George White had established Filton Airfield in 1910.
The hangar continued to act as a service facility for the RAF until the Second World War, when it housed both Spitfire and Hawker Hurricane fighter aircraft.
Original features including the Belfast roof trusses and intricate brickwork are being retained, and the original hangar doors are being restored.
Sebastian Loyn, planning and development director at YTL Developments, said: “Hangar 16U’s restoration embodies the vision for Brabazon.
“Hangar 16U will provide something for everyone; a place for all ages and all interests, for this generation and the next.
“The restoration of Hangar 16U is another sign of our commitment to the local community and to creating a truly sustainable neighbourhood at Brabazon.
“Our vision is to create the space, connectivity and opportunities that will drive local prosperity for the next 100 years.”
The Brabazon development includes plans for thousands of homes and 62 acres of commercial space to support 10,000 new jobs.
