THE new tower follows the purchase of land for a new Google data centre at North Weald.
The iconic gate guardian commemorating the special association forged between the RAF and the Hawker Hurricane at North Weald during World War II is also set to be relocated. Further investment will include a new public airfield entrance at the top of Merlin Way.
The new control tower will incorporate facilities for the Airfield’s local volunteer fire and rescue service, as well as Epping Forest District Council’s Airfield Operations Team.
North Weald Airfield celebrated the centenary of its foundation in 2016. It was originally commissioned by Winston Churchill to ward off zeppelin attacks on London. However, North Weald came into its own in 1940 as a key RAF base during the Battle of Britain. Later, it also became a symbol of national resistance for Norway, as the base for Norwegian pilots flying as part of the RAF.
Bought by Epping Forest District Council in 1980, North Weald Airfield continues to be the home of classic military and civilian aircraft as well as the Herts and Essex Air ambulance and police helicopters. The current control tower is a Grade 2 listed relic of the Cold War and will be preserved on that part of the airfield set to be redeveloped for the data centre.
The new control tower is being built on the southwest corner of the airfield grounds, providing level and open views of the runway. The fire and rescue function of the building is also set to be upgraded from the existing, with space for up to 3 fire appliances as well as support accommodation for staff.
Sustainability features heavily, with a range of energy-efficient technologies, including an air source heat pump, solar panels and low-energy lighting to be incorporated. Completion of the new control tower is expected in 2025.
Epping Forest District Council’s wholly-owned development company Qualis has worked alongside the council to deliver the project. Main contractor Faircloth Construction has an excellent track record in quality, sustainability and safety and was the main contractor for Qualis’ recently completed Waltham Connect industrial units in Waltham Abbey.
North Weald Airfield is also the home of Epping Forest District Council’s new private waste and recycling collection company Terra Verde Services (TVS).
Councillor Tim Matthews, Cabinet Portfolio Holder responsible for North Weald Airfield said:
“It is marvellous to see the new control tower move from the drawing board to construction. It reconfirms Epping Forest District Council’s commitment to aviation alongside commercial and economic development at North Weald.
“It is both an enabling work leading to the creation of high-tech jobs in the new data centre, and a renewal of the aviation infrastructure that supports many separate business tenants.
“North Weald is more than just a great place for business or a family day out watching the aircraft or attending the market. The council’s commitment to investment ensures the airfield provides significant income for the provision of local public services, wealth generation for local businesses, and jobs for local people.”