Spitfire Hangar, Filton Airfield
Hangar 16U at Filton Airfield, Bristol, is a Grade II listed aircraft hangar with strong links to Britain’s aviation heritage, including the development of the Spitfire. Once derelict and structurally compromised, the building has been transformed into the Spitfire Hangar, a modern commercial and heritage destination.
The project forms part of YTL UK Group’s wider regeneration of the historic airfield into Brabazon New Town. Restoring Hangar 16U was central to preserving the site’s aviation legacy while creating a building capable of supporting a new, long-term use.
- Client
- YTL Developments
- Timescale
- 5 months
- Date
- April 2026
- Budget
- 370k
- Project Manager
- Matt Goddard , Bristol
- Project Location
- Bristol
After
Before
task
Before refurbishment, the hangar had suffered years of deterioration. Its original corrugated metal roof coverings and timber elements had reached the end of their serviceable life, leaving the structure vulnerable to water ingress and continued material failure.
The building’s condition required a full roofing refurbishment to address the failing materials and underlying structural concerns. As a Grade II listed structure, any proposed solution also needed to meet strict conservation requirements, balancing improved thermal performance and durability with the preservation of the hangar’s historic character.
The scale of the roof and the complexity of the original construction added to the challenge. Although surveys and investigations were undertaken during the design and tender stages, the full condition and geometry of the existing roof structure could not be confirmed until the original coverings had been removed.
approach
Working on a Grade II listed structure required careful coordination and adherence to conservation requirements throughout the project. The hangar’s size and historic construction demanded a tailored approach, particularly in integrating modern materials with the existing structure.
The building’s previous condition also meant that unforeseen issues were likely once works commenced, requiring flexibility in delivery and close collaboration with the wider project team. Temporary safety netting was installed to ensure safe working conditions throughout the programme, reflecting the priority placed on health and safety.
Logistically, the scale of the hangar and its prominence within the Filton development added complexity, with works needing to align with the wider regeneration programme. Maintaining quality and consistency across such a large roof area was critical to achieving the desired performance and visual outcome.
solution
Central Group was appointed to deliver the roofing refurbishment works across the main roof and associated roof areas. The existing roof coverings had been removed, allowing for the installation of a new high-performance roofing system designed to meet modern thermal and durability standards while respecting the building’s heritage.
A Euroclad structural decking system was installed, fixed to the existing timber purlins, forming the basis of the new roof build-up. This was combined with a vapour control layer and multiple layers of insulation, including Rockwool RW3 rigid insulation and Knauf FactoryClad insulation, to significantly enhance thermal performance. The external finish utilised a sinusoidal steel profile with a Tata Steel HPS200 Ultra coating, providing long-term durability and weather resistance.
Additional works included the installation of new flashings, guttering around the building’s piers, and detailed integration around rooflights and penetrations. Secondary roof areas were completed using a Euroclad single skin system installed over new timber decking. The completed system delivers a robust, watertight solution backed by a 25-year warranty.