RAF Scampton: Dambusters officers' mess awarded protected status

The officers' mess building used by members of the famous Dambusters squadron at the former RAF Scampton has been given protected status.

West Lindsey District Council applied in March for the building to be listed amid government plans to house up to 2,000 asylum seekers at the site.

The success of the application "acknowledges the building's importance", the council said.

The Home Office said "heritage assets" at the site would be protected.

RAF Scampton, near Lincoln, was where 617 Squadron - the unit famous for launching the "bouncing bomb" dam raids against Germany in World War Two - was founded.

The officers' mess, which has now been officially recorded on the Historic England website as a Grade II-listed building, once provided social space and accommodation for RAF personnel.

Welcoming the listing, Trevor Young, leader of West Lindsey District Council, said: "This recognition of the high degree of special historical interest, specifically the base's role in some of the most famous actions of World War II, is a really positive outcome for the site, particularly as there remains an element of uncertainty around its short-term future."

The government's plan to house asylum seekers at the former Air Force station, which was also until recently the home of the Red Arrows, has been met with strong opposition.

A judicial review into the proposals is due to take place at the end of this month.

Confirming the building's Grade II-listed status, a Historic England spokesperson said: "The Department for Culture, Media and Sport has agreed with our recommendation to list the officers' mess at RAF Scampton.

"We have been advising the government on the historic significance of RAF Scampton and the current physical condition of the buildings."

Councillor Young said: "Custodians of listed buildings hold a privileged position, having an important role to play in protecting the nation's heritage for future generations.

"With that privilege comes a great responsibility to not only protect that asset, but also ensure it has a sustainable future."

He added that he hoped the Home Office would "take these responsibilities seriously" as it went ahead with the asylum centre plans.

A government spokesperson said: "The Home Office has made it clear from the outset of this project that it recognises its responsibilities to take appropriate steps to ensure the heritage assets at RAF Scampton are protected and preserved.

"Security and operational management plans will be put in place to support this.

"We are confident our project, which will house asylum seekers in basic, safe and secure accommodation, meets the planning requirements."

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