Operation Spitfire: Impact, inspiration, and a legacy to last

Delivered in collaboration by TeamSCAPE delivery partners Morgan Sindall Construction and Perfect Circle, Operation Spitfire is a unique project to restore and display a MK.XVI Spitfire in a newly built exhibition space at The Potteries Museum and Art Gallery. Envisioned by Stoke-on-Trent City Council, the landmark project demonstrates the benefits of making a difference way beyond the build.

A beautifully designed, glazed extension is now the final destination for this iconic Spitfire. A 3,800 square foot extension connects the Spitfire with visitors, both inside and outside of the museum.

The Spitfire has a distinct connection to the city of Stoke, as designer Reginald Mitchell hails from the area, and the RAF gifted the MK.XVI to the City of Stoke back in 1972.

"Retiring in its splendour, its clipped wings are free – a grand glass case for the whole world to see."

The project was delivered on time and on budget, with a 9/10 customer satisfaction score, and reinvested a total of £1million in social value in the local community. Throughout the project, countless hours were donated to Men Unite, raising money and providing support to the men’s mental health charity.

Additionally, a future generation of STEM pioneers were inspired with 101 apprentice weeks being hosted on the scheme for new entrants to the industry. Partnerships with Birmingham City University and Nottingham Trent University enabled guest lectures about the project and careers in the construction industry to be facilitated. The story of the life and work of the designer of the Spitfire, R.J. Mitchell, was told through bespoke mural hoardings, which were donated to local schools after project completion.