Aerospace Bristol

Construction of the new Concorde building is well under way with the roof and external cladding fully completed and internal fit-out in progress. Listed building hangar 16S now has a new power-floated floor and near completion of the internal structures for the visitor services and learning spaces. The retail fit-out contractor has been appointed and catering fit-out about to be tendered. The construction and fit-out programme remains on schedule for opening in early summer 2017.

Exhibition design is complete and most packages have been tendered or at Invitations to Tender stage covering fit-out, graphics, mounts, showcases, AV and interactives.

Over 140 active volunteers have now largely completed the conservation and restoration of the large objects going on display. These are now being wrapped and ready to move to the museum in the first 3 months of 2017. Small object conservation is being carried out by two Conservators seconded from Bristol Museums Services The curatorial team are finalising text and image selection from our archives and external sources

Of the £19m budget, there remains a £2m funding gap. The Bristol Aero Collection Trust has launched a public appeal for support.

Linda Coode/Adam Jones