E-karting operator TeamSport has taken the keys to its new venue at Bicester Motion.
The £4 million restoration of Grade II-listed, 31,000 sq ft Hangar 137 in the Technical Site, off Skimmingdish Lane, has been completed and TeamSport’s construction partner Marcon is now fitting out, including creating a 500-metre track (see CGI below).
The rectangular 1926 structure, which has openings at both ends, was one of the first of its kind at RAF stations.
Restoration is part of Bicester Motion’s ESG strategy to repurpose heritage assets into commercially viable space and historic graffiti on the internal walls of Hangar 137 has been retained as part of the work.
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Bicester Motion chief executive Daniel Geoghegan 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.
“By taking a retrofit approach, we have conserved the integrity of the structure, reduced embodied carbon and created a beautiful space capable of supporting long-term economic activity. It demonstrates that historic estates can play a central role in sustainable development and regional growth.
“We are thrilled to hand over the building to TeamSport, whose investment will bring energy, employment, opportunity and experience ensuring Hangar 137 once again becomes a place of movement and ambition. Thank you to everyone involved in delivering this project.”
TeamSport chief executive Gavin Adair said: “We’re absolutely delighted to have the keys to Hangar 137 and officially begin our journey at Bicester Motion. This is a hugely exciting step for us in Oxfordshire.
“We’ll now start work on transforming this incredible historic hangar into a spectacular two-level indoor e-karting and entertainment centre that the whole community can enjoy.
“As well as creating new jobs during both the construction and operational phases, we’re looking forward to welcoming families, schools, local businesses and motorsport fans through the doors very soon.”
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