Job to be finished next year

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Source: Burrell Foley Fischer

RG Carter has winged its way to a contract to build a £65m aviation research centre in Bedford.

The new Digital Aviation Research and Technology Centre, which is being developed by Cranfield University, has been designed by Burrell Foley Fischer. 

The building, which has been drawn up to look like a fighter plane from above, includes a two-storey atrium, digital research laboratories, open-plan office space and other commercial areas.

The centre will address research challenges facing the aviation industry such as the integration of drones and increasing the efficiency of airports.

The wider scheme also includes a ‘hangar laboratory’ that houses a Boeing 737 aircraft donated by British Airways – which will allow engineers to trial different approaches to maintenance and repairs.

Funding for the centre is being provided through a consortium of leading aerospace and aviation companies including Aveillant, Boxarr, the IVHM Centre, Saab and Thales – as well as Research England and the university.

The centre is due to be completed in 2020.