New hangar approved for Shobdon airfield

Plans to build a new hangar for light aircraft at Herefordshire’s only licensed airfield have been approved.

Measuring 34 metres by 11 metres, it will be the fourth hangar at Shobdon Airfield west of Leominster.

It is to be built of insulated grey profile sheeting, with a pitched roof, metal folding doors and a tarmac floor.

It will house four light aircraft already kept at the site, which will use existing taxiways to access the runway.

Shobdon parish council backed the application, saying it “encourages aviation development” at the airfield. There were no public objections.

Planning officer Kam Roopra considered the size of the proposed hangar was “not excessive”, adding: “As the aircraft are already on site, this is merely an alternative to leaving the aircraft in the elements.”

As such, there would be “no new or excessive pressure” on local roads, she said.

Initially a World War II army camp then an RAF gliding school, the airfield has been operated by Herefordshire Aero Club since 1962.

It is also home to a helicopter training and maintenance firm, as well as to clubs and training schools for gliders and microlights.