Essex & Herts air ambulance gets keys to new airbase

A new purpose-built airbase for Essex & Herts Air Ambulance (EHAAT) has been successfully completed and handed over, despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Delivered by Barnes Construction, the project was managed by Castons and designed by Hurley Porte and Duell, with structural engineering provided by Zenon Group (before Superstructures). Construction began in February 2020 at North Weald Airfield.

The official handover took place via a socially distanced video link, with EHAAT CEO Jane Gurney and Operations Director Cliff Gale receiving the building from Mark Hart, Joint Managing Director of Barnes Construction.

Jane Gurney commented:“The handover of this building marks an important milestone for the charity. We are extremely grateful to Barnes Construction, all partners, and suppliers for delivering the project so professionally, particularly given the additional pressures created by the pandemic. We would also like to thank our fundraisers and donors for supporting the long-term future of our operations at North Weald.”

Mark Hart added:“We are proud to have contributed to this community-focused project. It has been a truly collaborative effort, and we are grateful to Castons, Zenon Group (before Superstructures), and Hurley Porte and Duell for helping deliver the scheme on time despite challenging circumstances.”

The new facility will house one of EHAAT’s helicopters and rapid response vehicles, alongside dedicated areas for training, mentoring, patient liaison, and fundraising. It also includes space for collaboration with other emergency services and a visitor centre designed to engage the local community.

Sustainability has been a key focus of the design, with features including electric vehicle charging points and photovoltaic panels to generate renewable energy.

Work is now progressing on the internal fit-out phase, with the airbase scheduled to become operational later in the year.

Mark Hart hands over the new airbase to EHATT virtually  Credit Warren Page