July 24, 2020 3.59 pm This story is over 59 months old

Campaign to turn RAF Scampton into heritage centre after closure

Campaign group outlines vision for the base
RAF Scampton. | Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

A social media campaign to save and preserve the historic RAF Scampton base has outlined its vision for the site, with a view to making it a working museum and heritage centre.

The Mod plans to close RAF Scampton by 2022. Once it shuts, the Red Arrows will move to RAF Waddington, south of the city.

The Ministry of Defence had said it will look at ways of preserving the aviation heritage of the base north of the city after its closure.

Earlier this year it was reported that backed by Lincolnshire County Council, West Lindsey District Council had proposed £150,000 in order to fund a 15 year plan for the base.

A campaign called Save Scampton said the time has now come to step up efforts to try and save “this most valuable heritage asset”.

The campaigners are proposing to establish a charitable trust to raise money and to present a proposal to the MoD for the retention and preservation of Scampton to be run on a ‘not for profit basis’.

Once sufficient funds are raised Save Scampton’s vision for the base would be to:

  • It would have a working runway
  • Scampton Heritage Centre and Museum
  • Provide a base for small private aircraft and executive jets
  • Heliport
  • Veterans’ village providing secure homes for veterans
  • Hotel accommodation for visitors
  • Control tower with viewing platform with facilities for aviation fans and photographers
  • Storage and a base for heritage aircraft
  • Aircraft restoration businesses
  • Usage for film shoots
  • Air shows and open days
  • Classic car storage and restoration businesses

The Red Arrows flying over their home city. Photo: Mike Ling

During the Second World War, RAF Scampton was home to 617 Squadron which famously took part in the Dambusters raids in 1943.

Save Scampton said that any renovation and preservation would be in keeping with the architectural style of the existing buildings.

A professional team, including legal, technical and land professionals has already been set up and more volunteers are needed to take the vision forward.