Securing complex planning consents for a nationally significant testing, storage and aviation recycling centre
Bruntingthorpe is a 660‑acre proving ground with a unique blend of automotive, aviation and defence-related operations. The site includes a 3.2km runway – one of the longest in the UK – and a 6.5km test circuit, forming the backbone of a highly versatile environment for technical testing, storage, R&D, training and events.
We act for C Walton, managing the client’s relationship with the local planning authority and providing strategic planning advice across a diverse portfolio of development activities.
Location: Bruntingthorpe, Leicestershire
Client: C Walton
Service: Planning
Sector: Energy and Infrastructure
Project team: Brian Mullin
A uniquely complex planning environment
Bruntingthorpe is unlike any other commercial site in the country. Its combined use for vehicle testing, aviation storage, recycling, events, military trials and large‑scale logistics requires bespoke planning solutions and highly managed community engagement. Sensitive issues such as traffic generation, noise, light impact and the scale of operations have historically been the subject of community interest and press attention.
Our role has included ongoing coordination with the council, statutory consultees and local communities to ensure that each component of development is well‑justified, policy‑aligned and cognisant of the site’s rural Leicestershire context.
Securing a nationally unique aircraft recycling and storage consent
One of the most significant permissions we secured is the aircraft recycling and storage facility – a unique planning permission of its type in the UK. This reflects Bruntingthorpe’s national role as a centre for:
- Decommissioning and dismantling large aircraft
- Long-term aircraft storage, facilitated by extensive taxiways and apron space
- Specialist aviation engineering and maintenance operations
The planning permission supports the continued safe decommissioning and storage of aircraft on the retained estate.
Enabling commercial growth through a suite of planning approvals
We have successfully delivered a pipeline of planning consents that support Bruntingthorpe’s multi‑sector operations, including:
- 60,000 sq ft Manheim vehicle auction facility
- 58,000 sq ft vehicle refurbishment building
- 30,000 sq ft events and media centre
- 3,000 sq ft track monitoring facility
- On‑site residential worker accommodation for personnel supporting 24‑hour operations
These developments strengthen Bruntingthorpe as a major hub for:
- Vehicle testing and R&D
- Automotive innovation and training
- Secure vehicle storage
- Engineering and technical services
- Filming and media production
- Defence vehicle trials (supported by the site’s significant off‑road and cross‑country test facilities)
Navigating local relationships and community sensitivities
Community consultation has been central to the planning process, and concerns around increased traffic, noise from aircraft, and rising vehicle movements through nearby villages have required detailed assessments, mitigations and transparent dialogue.
The result
Our long-standing partnership with C Walton has enabled the sustainable evolution of Bruntingthorpe into one of the most flexible and innovative commercial testing environments in the UK.
Through a combination of unique aviation permissions, major commercial consents and diligent planning management, we continue to play a key role in shaping a site of regional and national significance.
