Meir Aerodrome

The aerodrome's closure was a multi-stage process. Its primary military purpose ended after World War II with the cessation of Spitfire production. It continued to operate for general aviation, hosting private flying and gliding clubs. However, these activities ceased around 1973 due to economic factors and declining use. The final and irreversible closure was driven by the high value of the land for development. The site was sold and subsequently redeveloped in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

The site of the former aerodrome has been completely and comprehensively redeveloped. It is now known as Meir Park, a large and busy development comprising a major retail park and a substantial housing estate. The retail park includes a large Tesco Extra supermarket, a McDonald's, B&Q, and various other stores and fast-food outlets. The original runways, hangars, and all other aviation infrastructure have been entirely removed. As a tribute to its past, the development's road network includes names such as 'Spitfire Way', 'Lysander Road', and 'Mitchell Way'.

Meir Aerodrome holds significant historical importance, primarily for its role during World War II. Originally opened in the late 1930s as a municipal airfield, it was quickly repurposed as a critical 'shadow factory' airfield. The adjacent Vickers-Armstrongs factory was responsible for the production of the Supermarine Spitfire fighter aircraft. The aerodrome was used for the final assembly, flight testing, and delivery of thousands of Spitfires built at the factory, making a vital contribution to the war effort. The site is also closely linked to the Spitfire's designer, R.J. Mitchell, who was a native of the Stoke-on-Trent area. After the war, it reverted to civilian use, serving local aviation enthusiasts before its eventual closure.

Effectively zero. The site is now fully occupied by a dense mix of commercial and residential buildings, car parks, and road infrastructure. The original airfield has been permanently obliterated, making any prospect of reopening as an aviation facility physically and logistically impossible.