A memorial museum to commemorate Biggin Hill’s contribution to both world wars has been given the green light by Bromley Council.

The museum will incorporate the St George’s RAF Chapel of Remembrance at Biggin Hill airport to ensure it remains “a permanent shrine of remembrance to those who gave their lives for our freedom”

It will tell the story of how the people of Biggin Hill contributed during World War One and Two and construction will start this year, with a view to open for the 100 year anniversary of the end of the First World War.

Councillor Stephen Carr, Leader of Bromley Council, said: “Working in partnership with the Biggin Hill Memorial Museum Trust, the long held vision for a museum at Biggin Hill has taken a major step forward.

“The story of Churchill’s ‘Strongest Link’ will be told to future generations at the place it actually happened and we will remember all those who served there.”

Biggin Hill Airport was the leading fighter station in the Battle of Britain and the museum will focus on the stories of fighter pilots, as well as those of ordinary people living in the area at the time.

Bruce Walker, chairman of the Biggin Hill Memorial Trust said: “This is enormously positive news.

“We can now firmly focus on finally building the Memorial Museum that so many want to see.

“We are hopeful that construction will start later this year so that the Museum can open in time to be part of commemorations for the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War. 

“The museum will be a permanent and fitting tribute and crucially, a place for reflection and learning, alongside the continued worship at St George’s Chapel.”

A decision will be made on the final Heritage Lottery Fund £2million grant next month, and, assuming a positive outcome, the building work will start in October this year.

Councillor Lydia Buttinger, chairwoman of Plans-Subcommittee said: “This application has seen a huge amount of public interest and a strong community commitment to ensuring a lasting tribute to commemorate the fallen.

“The approval of the plans will now allow the final funding to be secured and officers will work closely with the applicant to ensure that the materials used and landscaping are to the highest quality, reflecting both the historic importance of the site and the sensitive location in the Greenbelt.”