The upgraded facility at North Weald Airfield was delivered by Epping Forest District Council in partnership with its development company, Qualis, and Faircloth Construction.
Council leader Cllr Chris Whitbread said: “The completion of the new control tower is a proud moment.
“It demonstrates our commitment to aviation to our tenants and the annual 1,200 visiting aircraft while enabling future commercial growth.”
The airfield, established during the First World War and active through the Second World War, played a major role in the Battle of Britain and later hosted early jet fighter squadrons and glider training operations.
It remained an RAF base until 1964.
The modern facility offers improved visibility of the runway and enhanced working conditions for staff, supporting both safety and efficiency in airfield operations.
Designed with sustainability in mind, the building is equipped with air source heat pumps, solar panels, low-energy lighting, and EV charging points.
Cllr Tim Matthews, who is responsible for commercial and estates, said: “North Weald Airfield continues to be a where history meets innovation.
“The council’s vision, outlined in the North Weald Airfield Masterplan, is about creating a sustainable employment hub that supports local commerce, vital services, and delivers new opportunities for businesses and jobs.”
Other recent improvements at the site include a new public entrance on Merlin Way and upgraded security features.
The ‘Spirit of North Weald,’ a full-size fibreglass replica of a Hawker Hurricane Second World War fighter plane, is also being restored and will be relocated near the new tower.
The Hurricane commemorates the long-standing connection between the airfield and the village of North Weald dating back to its days as an RAF base.
The airfield currently supports a mix of civilian and military aviation, and is home to the Herts and Essex Air Ambulance service, police helicopters, and historic aircraft.
The new control tower is part of the council’s broader plan to expand economic opportunities and improve services on the site while preserving its historical legacy.
