THE BATTLE of Britain Bunker in Uxbridge has been given a £1million lifeline from the government to fund repairs to the historic wartime control room.

Aircraft operations, including those at the Battle of Britain and D-Day, were controlled from the underground bunker at RAF Uxbridge during the Second World War.

The government grant will allow the public to continue visiting the heritage attraction and its adjoining museum.

RAF Northolt’s Station Commander, Group Captain Andy Bacon said: "The 11 Gp Bunker at Uxbridge played a crucial role in the defence of the United Kingdom in its darkest hour.

“This funding will assure the Bunker’s long term viability so that its role and importance during these historic events can be remembered, understood and enjoyed by future generations.”

RAF Northolt run the site but it is also proposed that the bunker will eventually transfer from the ownership of Defence Estates to Hillingdon Council.

The council will also invest a further £4.5 million to create a state-of-the-art visitor and education centre above the Battle of Britain bunker.

When Chancellor George Osborne outlined the funding during his summer budget speech he described the bunker's renovation as a monument to the heroes of the Battle of Britain.

Councillor Ray Puddifoot, leader of Hillingdon Council, said: "The Battle of Britain bunker has a special place in the nation's hearts and it is fitting that the Government has recognised this in the Budget.

“The £1million pound funding will allow this national heritage site to be open more often and be appreciated by people of all ages from across the country and beyond. I am grateful to Boris Johnson MP for championing this cause with the Chancellor.

"The London Borough of Hillingdon is proud of its close links with the military and we look forward to taking ownership of the bunker and seeing it flourish in the years ahead."

Picture courtesy of slocumjoseph, with thanks.