Aircraft museum's appeal to keep hangar is granted

A museum displaying the works of one of Britain's aviation pioneers has successfully appealed to keep a temporary hangar open.

The de Havilland Aircraft Museum, near London Colney in Hertfordshire, was granted retrospective permission to maintain a permanent marquee and outdoor display of historical aircraft and aircraft parts.

The aerospace engineer, Geoffrey de Havilland, designed World War Two aircraft such as the Tiger Moth and Mosquito at the Grade II listed Salisbury Hall, where the museum is now based.

Jonathan Fulwell, the museum's manager, said it was "fantastic news for the longevity of the museum".

"We can now deliver our plans to provide the maximum opportunity to enjoy the de Havilland legacy," he added.

The museum, which is run by volunteers, opened in 1959 and houses 20 aircraft, including the World War Two Mosquito plane and the Comet, the world's first commercial jet airliner.

A temporary hangar was constructed in 2018 to house a display while another one was being built, but planning permission from Hertsmere Borough Council lapsed two years ago.

Special circumstances were required for permission to continue displaying in the outdoor space, as the museum is on green belt land.

The museum argued it had evolved from a centre for aviation enthusiasts to a significant local amenity.

Now known as the Amy Johnson Hangar, the space hosts the museum's Cold War exhibition, as well as workshops and includes a learning centre, cafeteria and events area.

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