An air ambulance service has begun work on a new airbase to secure the future of charity's helicopter operations.

Essex & Herts Air Ambulance (EHAAT) has begun construction of the airbase at North Weald Airfield – the facility will replace the current leased EHAAT base at North Weald.

EHAAT CEO Jane Gurney opened construction with a `breaking ground’ ceremony, attended by VIP guests, charity trustees, volunteers, a former airlifted patient and EHAAT’s critical care team as well as members of the construction team.

Speaking at the event, Jane Gurney said: “This is such an important milestone in the charity’s history, building our own specially-designed airbase will secure the future of our North Weald operations for decades to come. We are grateful to have the opportunity to do this, thanks to our amazing fundraisers who have supported the charity for over 20 years. Building the facility ourselves will result in significant cost savings compared to leasing a new building built to the same specification.”

Epping Forest Guardian:

The new airbase will modernise the service provided by EHAAT.

In addition to housing one of EHAAT’s two helicopters and two of its rapid response vehicles, the new base will include areas for training, mentoring, patient liaison and fundraising.

Part of the new airbase will be a dedicated interactive visitor centre.

The new facility is being built by Barnes Construction.

Mark Hart, Joint MD for Barnes Construction said: “We’re looking forward to delivering this important modern facility for Essex & Herts Air Ambulance. Our recent track record and experience in delivering projects within the charity sector means that we can demonstrate our commitment to both the construction, as well as our staff involvement in the various fundraising events that may be taking place in the months ahead.”

The occasion also saw the launch of the charity’s ‘Buy a Brick’ fundraising initiative which will allow supporters to get involved with the new airbase. Buying a brick is a great way to be part of our new airbase forever. All 4,000 bricks from this fundraiser will be used in the helicopter viewing area which will be accessible from the visitor centre.