JCB heir takes on BAE site
JCB heir Joe Bamford has invested a rumoured £100m into the acquisition of BAE Systems' Woodford Site through his company Avro Heritage.
Avro Heritage, which is half-owned by Bamford, has plans to build a film studio, housing and a polo club. But it said it will ensure the site's link with aviation continues.
Jim Welsh, of BAE Systems, said: "BAE Systems has a long and proud association with Woodford and although disappointed to be leaving the site we are happy that the new owners have exciting plans for this historically important site."
James Fletcher, for Avro Heritage, added: "We are honoured to take ownership of such a historic site and we will endeavour to ensure its past is not forgotten.
"We have many exciting plans for the site which will hopefully create new jobs and provide the local community with much needed leisure facilities."
Bamford is heir to the Rocester-based JCB empire.
It has been reported that Avro Heritage is in talks with an American film business over shooting a film at the disused hangars.
