RNAS Cattewater/RAF Cattewater/RAF Mount Batten

The closure was a result of military restructuring and technological evolution. The primary reason was the obsolescence of the flying boat as a military aircraft after World War II, replaced by more capable long-range, land-based patrol aircraft and helicopters. The station's role diminished over the decades, and it was eventually closed as part of the UK's post-Cold War defence spending reductions and the consolidation of military assets.

The former air station site has been completely redeveloped for civilian use. It is now a vibrant recreational and residential area. The main features include:

- **Mount Batten Watersports and Activities Centre:** A major centre for sailing, kayaking, and other water-based activities, utilizing one of the original Grade II* listed aircraft hangars.
- **Plymouth Yacht Haven:** A large marina occupying the area where the flying boats were moored.
- **Residential Housing:** Modern housing developments have been built on parts of the site.
- **Public Space:** The peninsula is accessible to the public, with coastal paths offering views of Plymouth Sound. The iconic Mount Batten Tower, a 17th-century artillery tower that predates the air station, still stands and is a local landmark.
- **Memorials:** A memorial stone commemorating the station and its personnel is located on the site.

The station has a rich and significant history spanning most of the 20th century.

- **Establishment and WWI:** It was established in 1917 as RNAS Cattewater, a base for seaplanes and flying boats conducting anti-submarine patrols during World War I.

- **Inter-War Period:** In 1918, it was absorbed into the newly formed Royal Air Force, becoming RAF Cattewater. It was renamed RAF Mount Batten in 1928. It gained international fame as the base for the British teams competing in the Schneider Trophy seaplane races in 1929 and 1931. A notable figure, T.E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia), served here under the pseudonym T.E. Shaw from 1929 to 1931, where he was involved in the development of high-speed rescue launches.

- **World War II:** RAF Mount Batten was a crucial front-line station for RAF Coastal Command. It operated squadrons of Short Sunderland and Consolidated Catalina flying boats. These aircraft played a vital role in the Battle of the Atlantic, conducting long-range anti-submarine patrols, convoy escort, and air-sea rescue missions. The station was a frequent target during the Plymouth Blitz.

- **Post-War and Cold War:** After the war, its role as a flying boat base declined. It became the headquarters of the RAF Marine Branch and the primary location for the RAF's Marine Craft Training School, operating high-speed launches for search and rescue and target towing until its final closure.

There are no plans or prospects for reopening the site as an airport. The land has been extensively and permanently redeveloped for recreational, commercial, and residential purposes. The infrastructure required for aviation, such as slipways and unobstructed water approaches, has been replaced by the marina and other structures, making a return to its former use unfeasible.