Old Sarum Airfield fire destroys historic Hangar 3

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News Summary

A substantial fire broke out at the Old Sarum Airfield in Wiltshire on April 17, 2025, impacting the historic Hangar 3 and leading to evacuations. Firefighters swiftly responded, but the structure partially collapsed, raising concerns over possible asbestos exposure. The fire’s cause is under investigation, and while no casualties were reported, the incident has left the community in shock, as Hangar 3 held significant historical value dating back to World War I.

Historic Hangar 3 Engulfed in Flames at Old Sarum Airfield

On the evening of April 17, 2025, a devastating blaze erupted at the renowned Old Sarum Airfield located in Salisbury, Wiltshire. The fire, breaking out around 6:38 PM, quickly spread through Grade II listed Hangar 3, an integral part of the airfield’s storied past. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with bright flames reflecting the centuries of history contained within the walls of the hangar.

Community on High Alert

Residents in the vicinity were alerted to the inferno after seeing intense flames and reporting the alarming sight to local authorities. Firefighters promptly arrived from various stations, including Amesbury, Salisbury, Ludgershall, Andover, and Ringwood, alongside a command unit from Devizes. As the smoke began to billow into the sky, authorities urged the local community to stay indoors and keep windows closed, raising fears regarding potential chemical exposure due to the age of the structure, particularly concerning asbestos.

Destruction and Evacuations

By 8:30 PM, the situation took a turn for the worse as Hangar 3 partially collapsed, and flames spread to an adjacent building, causing panic among locals. Although no casualties were reported by 10 PM, the picturesque airfield known for ongoing parachuting and flying activities found itself in turmoil. A relief crew from Amesbury was called in to assist, employing advanced firefighting technology such as ground monitors and aerial ladder platforms to combat the rising inferno.

Investigating the Cause

The fire’s origins remain under investigation, with authorities keen to understand how such a disaster could occur. Enhanced concerns have surfaced in light of previous structural damages the hangar sustained from Storm Isha earlier in January. Community sentiment reflects a deep sense of loss regarding what many consider a cherished landmark. As the site transitions toward redevelopment, with plans to build up to 315 homes, the historic significance of the hangar cannot be understated. It has served as a training depot during World War I and continued its legacy through World War II military operations.

Caution for Residents and Onlookers

The scene attracted considerable attention from curious residents and onlookers; however, local police were quick to advise against obstructing emergency workers. Authorities called on anyone who witnessed the fire prior to its escalation to contact them, aiming to gather information to support the ongoing investigation.

Community Response and Historical Significance

The airfield, regarded as one of the oldest continuously operational airfields in the UK, carries a noteworthy historical relevance, being home to training activities that have shaped aerial operations in the region. Hangar 3 was famously constructed by German prisoners of war and the Chinese Labour Corps during World War I, making its destruction a poignant loss for the community. Eyewitnesses described a massive plume of smoke that could be seen for miles, a haunting reminder of the past being consumed by flames.

The local café and restaurant adjacent to Hangar 3 also faced damage as a result of the fire, further deepening the impact on the community. Following the incident, GoSkydive, a business based at the airfield, announced the cancellation of skydiving activities and plans to perform safety checks in the wake of the incident.

Moving Forward

As the investigation unfolds and the community processes this tragic event, there is a collective hope that the historic airfield can regain its status as a symbol of notable local history. The destruction of Hangar 3 has left an indelible mark on the hearts of many who value the rich tapestry of stories that the airfield represents. Authorities continue to monitor air quality as remediation efforts commence, ensuring local health and safety are prioritized following this catastrophic event.