A GRADE-II listed plane hangar will soon get a new lease of life as a karting attraction.
Ever wanted to test out your racing skills or dreamt of being in Formula One? Well, a new venue opening near the Cotswolds will allow you to do just that.
Hangar 137 – a former plane hangar in Bicester, Oxfordshire – will be transformed by TeamSport to an indoor e-karting destination, following a recent £4million makeover.
The hangar was originally built in 1926 as a plane shed for the RAF between World War I and World War II.
Once TeamSport fits it out, the attraction will be an e-carting centre with two 500metre electric go-karting tracks across two levels.
In total, the attraction will span across 2,880sqm.
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Daniel Geoghegan, chief executive officer, Bicester Motion, said: “The practical completion of Hangar 137 in its centenary year is a significant achievement for the estate and a powerful example of what heritage regeneration can deliver.
“This 1926 Type A hangar was built at a defining moment in Britain’s aviation history.
“Our responsibility has been to protect that significance while ensuring the building can support a viable, modern commercial use.”
Gavin Adair, CEO, TeamSport added: “We’re absolutely delighted to have the keys to Hangar 137 and officially begin our journey at Bicester Motion.
“We’ll now start work on transforming this incredible historic hangar into a spectacular two-level indoor e-karting and entertainment centre that the whole community can enjoy.”
Bicester Motion, the team behind the new development, previously said that the attraction will be the “first automotive resort” in the UK.
When the proposal was submitted to the council, there were also plans to include a bowling zone, workshop and mezzanine viewing area for spectators.
The attraction will also be located at the edge of the Cotswolds with the picturesque town of Charlbury 30 minutes away.
In the town, visitors can explore Charlbury Museum which documents the history of the ancient market town.
And if you get thirsty, head to The Rose & Crown, which is a multi-time CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) award-winning pub.
The traditional and charming spot has a number of real ales, and often hosts live music events,
In other attractions news, here are 15 attractions in the UK that have £1 per person tickets from huge castles to kid-friendly museums.
Plus, one of London’s most popular free attractions is getting a massive £231million upgrade.