The £4 million restoration of Hangar 137 at Bicester Motion is now complete and the historic building has been handed over to new occupant TeamSport.
The former bomber hanger will now be used for e-karting with a 500-metre track laid out across two floors.
Bicester rejuvenation of the hanger prioritised retaining and repairing the historic fabric of the building while also reducing its carbon footprint to make it fit for its new role.
Historic graffiti adorning the internal walls has been retained because it tells part of the hangar’s story. Other features including the loud hailer and metal that tanks remain in situ, further adding to the continued heritage.
Daniel Geoghegan, chief executive officer of Bicester Motion, said: ‘The practical completion of Hangar 137 in its centenary year is a significant achievement for the estate and a powerful example of what heritage regeneration can deliver. This 1926 Type A hangar was built at a defining moment in Britain’s aviation history. Our responsibility has been to protect that significance while ensuring the building can support a viable, modern commercial use.’
