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FOR THE PRICE OF A POSTAGE STAMP YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE |
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 Why
bother trying to save a long forgotten and decaying aerodrome?
I mean, does it really matter? Some
"experts" may argue that places like RAF Driffield are not architecturally or
historically as important as your local parish church, or cast-iron relic from the industrial
revolution. But who decides on what
should receive preferential treatment or much needed funding? Is
it morally right that the voices of those who care are ignored by those who believe they
know best? Many have argued that RAF Driffield is of no significant
importance to warrant consideration and obviously, I disagree...
So why is RAF Driffield so important? Because a preserved RAF Driffield would represent countless hundreds of other aerodromes that no longer exist. As I've mentioned elsewhere: today there are only a handful of surviving veterans of The Great War (1914-1918). In 25 years time there will be a similar number of elderly veterans of the Second World War (1939-1945). Those who remember or who bore witnessed are our greatest assets those we look up to with pride or for an insight into what happened. Yet, when the last solder, sailor, airmen, or wartime evacuee has passed away what is left will become exponentially more valuable. The problem is that by then it maybe too late. If we are to consolidate our history beyond the grave then we need to increase our "heritage portfolio" and not cast away the physical attributes (aerodromes included) in the same manner we have done so in the recent past. The preservation of any aerodrome is dependant on opportunity and creativity, rather than the reliance on listed or conservation area status. For a site to be preserved it must be embraced for what it is. The problem is that the attitude of some is to use any excuse to warrant change. No matter what the condition of a building someone with an ulterior motive will always favour demolition over preservation. It is this mindset that we need to change. We have the opportunity to save RAF Driffield - NOT through direct action (see below), but though convincing those with deep pockets that you can preserve this site without affecting profit margins (if the MoD dispose of the site) or operational effectiveness (if the site is retained). There has in recent years been several attempts made by enthusiasts to purchase similar sites from the MoD. On each occasion the efforts of many have been thwarted by the realisation that the purchase, restoration and upkeep of an entire aerodrome is a complex and expensive business - beyond all but the most affluent of property developers. But all is not lost. If you want to help save RAF Driffield make a noise and write to your MP. Even though you might not live in or around Driffield, a letter to your local MP will make a difference. My own MP is Alan Johnson, whose constituency encompasses West Hull. He has been more than helpful in seeking information. So writing to your MP works. If you once lived or worked at RAF Driffield you have the
right to contact your MP and express your concerns over the future of this
aerodrome. Accordingly, your MP is
obligated to both acknowledge your letter and if appropriate act on your behalf
making enquires and notifying the appropriate government department.
No matter where you live, write to the Driffield Times (address below) and your favourite national newspaper or aviation magazine. This will also help keep the ball rolling. This website records my attempt to save an aerodrome part of our heritage from being demolished. If you would like to help save RAF Driffield, or voice your concern that not enough is being done to protect our aviation heritage, then please contact your MP. For the price of a postage stamp you can make a difference - there is some truth in the old proverb the pen is mightier than the sword* Kind Regards Phillip Rhodes Useful Names and Addresses
*but not heavy artillery |