The story
Alt Name: --. Opened: 1941. Status in 1944: RAF. 26 Grp. Bomber Ops. Current use: Industry. Remarks: Substantial sections of runway and taxiway remain. The airfield closed at the end of 1956. The land was bought by Girling ( part of LUCAS Automotive components) and used as a test track for vehicle braking systems. The track comprised the main 5900 foot runway and west peri-track and aprons. All the buildings were removed but the hanger floors remain. The two shorter runways and east peri-track were dug up for hardcore and the East side of the airfield reverted to farming. The track was sold off to 'Prodrive' who still operate it as a vehicle test track. Of late an earth bank has been pushed up around the track to prevent prying eyes from seeing what's being tested and to reduce vehicle noise. In 1962 a VOR was installed on the aerodrome.
There's more to discover
You have arrived at just one small part of Back to Normandy — a personal project dedicated to preserving stories, images, music and memories of the Second World War.
Every record is a doorway to a larger story. Explore Back to Normandy to discover more, or visit Fred Vogels' personal website to learn about the person and the projects behind it.