BIG Plans for Flying Start

It’s chocks away for Flying Start’s bid to celebrate the pioneering spirit of the founding fathers of aviation with the creation of an iconic, energy efficient building on the Isle of Sheppey.

The project’s partners, led by Sheppey Heritage Trust and including Swale Borough Council, Swale Forward and HM Prison Service have submitted an application to the BIG Lottery Living Landmarks Fund for the construction of a multi-million pound centre for Swale.

The Flying Start project, estimated to cost in the region of £30m, has been recognised by the local authorities and agencies within Thames Gateway as important to Swale’s economic, social and cultural regeneration.

The partners will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the first flight by a Britain in a British built aeroplane in 2009 with Flying Start fully open in 2011. Flying Start will capture the spirit of the pioneering aviators, including the Wright brothers, Charles Rolls and Moore-Brabazon, who transformed an isolated spot at Eastchurch into the world’s first aircraft production factory, forming the foundation of the aero industry in Britain.

Bill Croydon, Secretary of Sheppey Heritage Trust and driving force behind the Flying Start proposals, said: “We are confident our proposals, developed over the last six months, will convey the compelling case for funding as Flying Start epitomises everything that the BIG Lottery Fund is seeking to achieve.”

Swale Borough Council Cabinet Member for Regeneration John Wright, added: “The local community are right behind what we are seeking to create at Eastchurch and what Flying Start will deliver in terms of employment, training and leisure amenities for the Island. An immense amount of work has gone into developing a very robust business plan and everyone involved must be congratulated.”

The environmental design philosophy of the building and its engineering services will take full advantage of seasonal changes in climate and help to reduce reliance on energy consuming systems, driving down consumption and emissions.

Stuart Martin, of award winning architects Walker and Martin, is leading Flying Start’s design and commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. The building has adopted a comprehensive ‘greening’ strategy including wind turbines, solar and geothermal energy, as well as rainwater recycling.

The project will also make full use of a local workforce to help construct and maintain the centre, providing much needed jobs and skills training.

The building will not only tell the story of early British aviation, but will be a centre of culture and learning, as well as providing a viewing base for bird enthusiasts across the local RSPB site. It will take the form reminiscent of a delta wing aeroplane taking off, encompassing existing listed buildings as well as creating exciting new spaces. The entire site is 22 acres, with the building's footprint being approximately 152m x 97m with a floor area of 10,400m2. Starting from ground level the building will soar to 34m at its highest point.

A decision by the BIG Lottery is expected in October this year.