25 January 2024
A chunk of land at North Weald Airfield has been sold to Google by the owner, Epping Forest District Council (EFDC).
However, the 52 acres bought by Google, possibly for a data centre, allow for North Weald Airfield to continue to function as an operational aerodrome. The plan by EFDC includes a new combined Control Tower and Fire Station.
“The announcement follows extensive consultation carried out in adoption of the Masterplan for the site last March,” said EFDC in a statement.
“This included key local stakeholders, businesses and other occupiers based at North Weald Airfield, as well as local residents. An airfield tenants liaison group will also launch in the coming weeks.”
Google is already developing a nearby site outside Waltham Cross. A spokesperson for Google told Essex Live, “While we do not have a confirmed timeline for development [at North Weald], we want to ensure we have the option to expand our technical infrastructure, should our business demand it.”
North Weald Airfield is an important general aviation aerodrome in the area, adjacent to the M11 motorway, with more than 40,000 movements a year. The 400 acre airfield was granted listed status in 2005.
The airfield was a fighter base during WW11 and is the home of North Weald Airfield Museum, The Squadron club house and numerous aviation businesses.
What’s a data centre look like? This is what Google is spending £1bn building at nearby Waltham Cross. Image: Google
Cllr Chris Whitbread, leader of EFDC, said, “The potential that this development brings is immense – not only in terms of advancing our digital infrastructure but also in generating high-quality, well-paid employment opportunities and bolstering our local economy.
“The sale makes the best use of the land available at North Weald Airfield, both in terms of driving forward our local economy as well as meeting the recommendations of the Strategic Masterplan.”
