RAF Swinderby

The closure was a direct result of the post-Cold War defence spending cuts announced in the UK government's 'Options for Change' defence review. This strategic review led to a significant reduction in the size of the armed forces and the consolidation or closure of many military bases across the country. RAF Swinderby was identified for closure as part of this military drawdown.

The site has been completely transformed since its closure. The Ministry of Defence sold the land in 1995 for redevelopment. The former airfield, technical site, and domestic areas have been developed into the large, modern village of Witham St Hughs, which features extensive housing, a primary school, shops, and a community centre. Some of the original large hangars have been retained and repurposed for commercial and industrial use within the Swinderby Business Park. The former married quarters now form a separate private housing estate. Most of the runways and taxiways have been removed or built over, leaving very few traces of the site's original aviation purpose.

RAF Swinderby opened in August 1940 as part of RAF Bomber Command. During World War II, it was a key heavy bomber station, initially in No. 1 Group and later transferring to the famous No. 5 Group. It hosted several notable squadrons, including the Polish No. 300 and No. 301 Squadrons, which flew Fairey Battles and later Vickers Wellingtons. After the war, the station's role transitioned to training. Its most significant post-war role began in 1964 when it became the main RAF Recruit Training School. For nearly 30 years, the vast majority of all non-commissioned personnel (both male and female) entering the Royal Air Force completed their basic training at Swinderby, making it a foundational and memorable location for tens of thousands of service members.

There are no plans or prospects for reopening RAF Swinderby as an airport. The comprehensive and large-scale redevelopment of the site into the residential village of Witham St Hughs and a business park makes any future aviation use infeasible. The infrastructure required for an airport, including runways and taxiways, has been almost entirely removed and built upon.