THREE First World War aircraft hangars in Ellesmere Port will benefit from a £50,000 restoration and refurbishment grant.
Plans for the site include developing an aviation museum element and will start with restoration work to the roof of hangar two.
The funds were awarded to The Hooton Park Trust by not-for-profit company WREN and is part of a new Heritage Fund to protect listed buildings and structures of historical importance.
Graham Sparkes, from The Hooton Park Trust, said: “The Hooton Hangars are one of a very small number of World War One hangars still remaining and there are years of valuable and intriguing history on the site.
“It’s vital that we save the structure and keep it accessible for the local and wider community.”
The Hooton hangars had a five-year lifespan but were recommissioned for use during the Second World War.
They stand on a former RAF airfield where over 10,000 military aircraft were assembled, with the majority of the site now occupied by Vauxhall. They have been listed as at risk for several years.
Peter Cox, managing director of WREN, said: “It’s vital that we support the long-term survival of historical sites such as the Hooton hangars.
“We’re delighted to support the restoration and look forward to the completion of this stage of the project.”
For more information about the WREN Heritage Fund contact Peter Moralee on 01379 687226 or email heritage@wren.org.uk.
