Old aircraft hanger at Brabazon to be turned into social space
Hanger 16U is set to be transformed into a social space for the community
Work has started to transform a historic aircraft hanger in North Bristol into a new social hub for the community.
Malaysian developer YTL, which is behind the plans for the Bristol Arena and new neighbourhood being built on the former Filton Airfield, said Hangar 16U would “provide something for everyone”.
The space will have an open-plan café downstairs, as well as quiet spots for studying, activity rooms for events and a fitness centre. Upstairs will be dedicated youth spaces, more activity rooms and a large social space.
The hub is being designed by Bristol-based architects Ferguson Mann, with YTL pledging to preserve the hangar’s features including its Belfast trusses and red brickwork. The hangar’s original doors have already been removed ready to be restored and rehung, it said.
Construction is expected to last around 18 months, with plans to open the hub to the public in the summer or autumn of 2025.
Sebastian Loyn, planning and development director at YTL Developments, said: “Hangar 16U’s restoration embodies the vision for Brabazon. As the birthplace of Concorde, this former airfield was the centre of a community that changed the world. Our aim is to live up to that legacy by reimagining this historic hangar as a vibrant social hub, returning it to the heart of the community once again.”
The news comes just weeks after the approval of the revised masterplan for Brabazon, which will now include 6,500 homes.
Last year, YTL confirmed its long-awaited arena had been delayed until 2025 at the earliest. The capacity of the arena is to be increased from 17,000 to 19,000. It was original slated to open in 2024.
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