BE PART OF

DUXFORD’S
NEXT CHAPTER

At the heart of South Cambridgeshire, Duxford AvTech will create a new home for sustainable aviation technology alongside a new IWM Lab – a facility designed to protect and showcase IWM’s historic collections.

Led by HBD in partnership with IWM Duxford and Gonville & Caius College (University of Cambridge), the project will build on Duxford’s heritage while embracing pioneering aviation innovation.

This ambitious project will continue Duxford’s proud aviation legacy while advancing the future of flight – developing cleaner, quieter, low-carbon technologies that will define the next generation of aviation.

About the project
Duxford AvTech will:

  • Underpin IWM Duxford’s long-term resilience through stable, financial return

  • Deliver a new IWM Lab, an energy-efficient collections and conservation facility with guided viewing areas and training opportunities

  • Build on Duxford’s proud heritage as Britain’s best-preserved WWII airfield

  • Create around 1,200 new full-time jobs in research, engineering and operations

  • Contribute £64 million annually to the local and regional economy

  • Strengthen Cambridgeshire’s role as a leader in British innovation

Set alongside IWM Duxford’s historic airfield, it brings together Cambridge’s world-class research (including the Whittle Laboratory) with Duxford’s proud aviation heritage and Cambridge’s legacy of innovation.

A key part of the project, the new IWM Lab, will provide an energy-efficient facility to help preserve and store IWM’s historic collection of over 400 pieces. Housing the collection on-site will also enable the Lab to welcome more visitors for guided tours, open days, and specialist conservation training and apprenticeships to support the long-term care of the collection.

Why Duxford?

Low-carbon aviation is an exciting, emerging industry in the UK. With its unique mix of heritage, research excellence and airfield access, Duxford is perfectly placed to be at the forefront of the UK’s future in sustainable flight.

Cambridge is already home to a rich ecosystem of world-class technology and innovation spaces, spanning life sciences, advanced manufacturing and AgriTech.

Duxford AvTech will further strengthen Cambridge and help continue to attract top talent and drive investment into the city and country.

Engaging the community

We know how important IWM Duxford is to residents, visitors, and everyone who values its heritage.

We’re committed to engaging the local community, listening to your feedback and using it to help us refine our proposals ahead of an anticipated planning submission in 2026.

Join our events to learn more about our vision for Duxford AvTech

Saturday 7th February 10am - 1.30pm
Tuesday 10th February 4pm - 7.30pm

Airspace Aircraft hall, Duxford,
Cambridge CB22 4QR

Contact us

duxfordavtech@thisislca.com
Phone 0800 044 3916