Former RAF fire hut converted into office at Bicester Motion

Building 88, a small former military building at the historic RAF Bicester site, was originally constructed as a Fire Party Hut before later being used for storage.

The 18-square-metre building has now been refurbished and is being used as an office, with a retrospective planning application lodged to formally approve its change of use.

Planning officers at Cherwell District Council recommended approving the plans, saying the project had brought a building within the RAF Bicester Conservation Area back into use.

The council's report said refurbishment included an internal glazed door and screen and a security light, while concluding that the work had improved the building's appearance without harming the conservation area or neighbouring listed buildings.

The original external timber entrance doors have also been retained, with the new glazed inner door installed behind them in an effort to preserve the building's historic character.

No objections or comments were received from members of the public, while Launton Parish Council also raised no objections.

Officers said the office was unlikely to create significant noise or disturbance for nearby homes and would provide a “small amount of employment”.

Permission is subject to the premises being restricted to offices, research and development or light industrial uses rather than the full range of activities normally permitted under Class E.

The wider Bicester Motion estate is home to more than 50 automotive and aviation brands employing more than 800 people.