Bicester Motion unveils designs to conserve Hangar 113 for the next century

Bicester Motion has unveiled plans to conserve and revitalise Hangar 113, a Type C RAF hangar from the interwar period, with designs submitted to Cherwell District Council that will secure the future of the Grade II listed structure for generations to come.

Originally built in 1937, the 88 year old building requires essential fabric repairs, roof restoration, and installation of modern heating and cooling systems which have been designed to conserve the structure while meeting current standards.

The proposed designs will sensitively restore the building’s historic fabric while conserving the overall scale and historic appearance to provide a sustainable new use as office and events space within Bicester Motion’s historic area.

The scheme will also introduce improved access for visitors and tenants to align with Bicester Motion’s mission to be an unrivalled destination for automotive pioneers, like-minded enthusiasts and families.

The project forms part of Bicester Motion’s wider heritage-led regeneration programme, which has already seen major investment in conserving and reusing historic RAF Bicester buildings to help transform the former airbase into a globally recognised estate for mobility innovation, heritage, and experience.

Daniel Geoghegan, chief executive officer, Bicester Motion, said: “Our proposed investment plans reflect our ongoing commitment to conserve the character of the building while ensuring it remains a dynamic and vital part of the Bicester Motion community. By fostering new opportunities for business, innovation, and experiences, we aim to continue contributing to economic growth in the town. Providing Hangar 113 with a sustainable new purpose will allow its architectural and historical significance to be appreciated for another hundred years while aligning with our mission for the future of mobility.”

In January 2025, planning approval was granted to conserve nearby Type A Hangar 137 which will celebrate its centenary in 2026. This has enabled Bicester Motion to invest £4 million to restore, rejuvenate and conserve the historic hangar’s external building fabric and for TeamSport to deliver a new £2 million state of the art 500 metre electric go-karting track and centre to boost grassroots and women in motorsport talent. Works are underway and are due to be completed in 2026.

Acting on behalf of Bicester Motion were Ridge and Partners, Edgars, Worlledge Associates and Aurochs Ecology.