Air museum secures future with site purchase

One of Nottinghamshire's best known museums says it has secured its future after agreeing a deal to buy its site.

Newark Air Museum which holds nearly 100 whole or part aircraft among hundreds of other items, had leased its 13-acre home from the Newark and Nottinghamshire Agricultural Society (NNAS) since the 1970s.

After a decade of negotiations, it has now been able take ownership of the land, thanks in part to a bequest from one of its supporters.

Trustees said they would now work towards a major reorganisation of the museum which will include new parking, access and displays.

Howard Heeley, secretary and museum trustee said: "It's been a lot of work, and there is a lot of work still to do but the overwhelming feeling is relief.

"We have three big airframes here, along with other logistical issues, and getting ownership means we don't have to worry about potentially moving them again."

Mr Heeley thanked NNAS, the site's previous owners, as well as former member John Dove and former museum trustee and vice-president, Mick Clarke.

"Without the good will of the NNAS this wouldn't have been possible but also without the bequest from John and the hard work of Mick, both of whom have since passed on, we wouldn't have achieved so much," he said.

The museum said it would soon formally launch 'Project 2039', which will involve developing new access schemes, new car parking areas and further aircraft display areas.

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