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V mesh fencing secures an RAF heritage museum

15 July 2021

From 1916-1996, Manston airfield located in East Kent was a Royal Naval Station, and played an important role in the history of Britain.

The RAF Manston History Museum is based on the history of this famous airfield, with partial and whole aircraft and artefacts that reflect and educate on the history of the airfield, squadrons and personnel from World War I up to modern search and rescue operations, and its move into Civil Aviation. On display are also military vehicles, including two WWI trucks used in the film ‘War Horse’.

Attracting thousands of visitors every year, the museum is funded by income from admission fees and donations, and is run by volunteers.

Parts of the museum were built in 1917, so in 2020 it was decided that the leaking roof, outdated electrics, and tired looking exhibits were in need of refurbishment. In addition to the maintenance works being carried out, a café is also being added, using the traditional N.A.A.F.I (The Navy, Army and Air Force Institutes) name, and the entrance and shop are being reconfigured to create a more welcoming area. Additionally, a rare plane is being restored to its former glory, to enable visitors to appreciate both the inside and the outside of it.

Due to COVID, the museum had to be temporarily closed in March 2020, so income had decreased. Funding for the refurbishment was raised by RiverOak Strategic Partners, and donations from the local community.

With priceless heritage assets on display at the site, appropriate security fencing was also an essential requirement for the museum.

Solution

EuroGuard Regular is a V mesh fencing system which is profiled to create a rigid mesh panel that stays strong over time, and was chosen to secure the perimeter of the site. With its 200 x 45mm apertures, it provides high visibility, which simultaneously provides clear viewing of the planes on show, while allowing surveillance of the surrounding area for security purposes. Situated on a busy crossroad, it was also important that the fencing did not block views for drivers at the junction.

As with all our welded mesh panels, EuroGuard Regular wires are measured before coating to provide an accurate indication of strength. The wires have a 5mm diameter, with a zinc alloy treatment on top to provide superior protection against rust and corrosion. For the museum, the fencing was polyester powder coated green to blend with the predominant colours of the vehicles and grassy area around the site. To allow pedestrian access, a single leaf gate was installed, along with a double leaf gate for vehicles and to allow ease of movement for transporting the planes on and off site as required.  

Being such an important heritage asset, the museum chose to invest in a long-lasting, high quality fencing solution, which with a 25 year guarantee offers a low lifetime cost. From the raw materials we transform, to the fixings we use, every detail is designed with quality, longevity, and security in mind. The fencing will help protect the site and allow future generations to learn about the history of the site for years to come

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