Plan to 'rescue' RAF Ibsley control tower hit by objection

The Landmark Trust submitted an application to restore a former RAF control tower it describes as a monument to the sacrifices made by young pilots.

The Trust aims to prevent the historic New Forest building from collapsing by transforming it into holiday accommodation.

But Natural England (NE) has lodged an objection to the proposed development on the grounds it would harm conservation sites rich in wildlife.

The former control tower at RAF Ibsley, near Ringwood, is next to Blashford Lakes (Image: Landmark Trust)

The control tower, also known as the watch office, was the nerve centre of the former RAF Ibsley airfield near Ringwood.

It appeared in a 1942 movie about R J Mitchell, the Southampton engineering genius who designed the Spitfire as the threat of war loomed.

The Landmark Trust has written to New Forest District Council in response to the objection lodged by Natural England (NE).

The letter says: "We entirely understand NE's reluctance to see any change on this special site and their responsibilities for ensuring its protection.

"However, we are also deeply conscious of the outstanding historical importance of the watch office and the very high risk that if action is not taken the building all it represents will be lost.

"The watch office was erected at a time when Britain stood almost alone against Nazi Germany and is a monument to the immense human sacrifice of the Second World War.

"Many young men flew sorties from here during the Battle of Britain, some never to return, and remained in active service throughout the war.

"The strength of public feeling in favour of the scheme is very strong."

The control tower was built during the Second World War ad appeared in a movie about the designer of the Spitfire (Image: Landmark Trust)

The Trust says its campaign to save the building has sparked 130 letters of support and generated around £800,000 in public donations.

"Given all this, and the likelihood it will soon collapse or be demolished if action is not taken, we have decided that we must persevere with our plans."

Natural England's task is to ensure the natural environment is conserved and enhanced.

Its objection says the building work needed to restore the control tower could affect wintering birds, disrupting their foraging and resting activities.

"The balconies and access to the roof will encourage people to spend time outside, resulting in increased noise and lighting disturbance.

"The renovated tower will be used for regular public events and open days. This will increase visitors to the site and Blashford Lakes."