The new buildings and masterplan bring a much-needed coherence to the site, and offer new spaces that enhance visitor experience while providing additional security protection to site.
The scheme includes a 170-seat restaurant in a derelict 1930’s building and many of its original features have been maintained, in consideration of its Listed curtilage. Significant works to the 1970’s Hangar 1 create a space to maximise the planned exhibitions, and to provide a prominent new entrance and visitor centre which will act as a welcome and orientation point. Works were completed with an 85-foot Sunderland sea plane left in-situ, too fragile and large to be moved. The exhibit has created a unique exhibition and events hall, with no damage to the plane throughout the refurbishment. Outside, the scheme offers nearly 3 acres of landscaped, public, external amenity space.
The project was carefully planned to ensure that the museum activities were not impacted by the construction activities on the site. This was achieved through considered logistics planning and phased handover of areas.
The new site has proved hugely popular with local visitors and tourists alike since opening in 2018.
