THE POLICE’S helicopter and aeroplane unit is moving to a historical WW1 airfield.

Planning permission for the National Police Air Service (NPAS) purpose built airbase at North Weald Airfield was granted by district councillors at Plans East meeting on Wednesday, 6 December.

It will replace an existing facility at Lippitts Hill, High Beach which has been operating since 1980 and will provide support to forces in the South East and London with its two police helicopters and one plane.

The move comes as the Met looks to save £11m and could bring an additional 20,000 air movements a year to the airfield, with the police helicopters operating 24 hours a day.

Paul Marrion, South East Assistant Operations Director for the National Police Air, said: “We are delighted to be able to build our new bespoke airbase at North Weald Airfield. This decision will ensure that we can continue to support police forces across London and the South East in their efforts to protect people and property and to keep communities safe.”

“Police air support is a vital tool available to police forces. Flying at average speeds of 138mph, searching for missing people or suspects by air is 20 times faster than other options and saves local police valuable time when it matters.”

North Weald Airfield first operated during WWI and provided a home for RAF Spitfires and Hurricanes during the Battle of Britain in WWII.

Councillor Anne Grigg, Epping Forest Council's Assets and Economic Development Portfolio Holder, said: “The addition of the National Police Air Service is an exciting opportunity which will allow the vital service to carry out their much needed work, ensuring residents safety, which is our top priority.”

“They will be joining a range of aviation tenants at the airfield including The Essex and Herts Air Ambulance who have been operating successfully for several years.”

“I am proud of the contribution our airfield has made over the years and as it continues to grow, we welcome these important and valuable services.”