Project Description
CLIENT: Goodwood Estate
PROJECT: Aerodrome
Within the motor circuit is Goodwood Aerodrome, a historic airfield that was used extensively during WWII when it was known as RAF Westhampnett. Several historic aircraft continue to be housed at the Aerodrome, including two Spitfires and a Harvard.
SMD provided Contract Administration and Quantity Surveying services for the refurbishment of the existing Aerodrome building at Goodwood. The Aerodrome manages all arrivals and departures from Goodwood and houses pilot training rooms, offices, and modern café facilities. It also offers a rooftop space for corporate events.
The brief from the client was unique: the existing building had been poorly constructed just a few years earlier and had never been used by the client. After completion, a dispute arose over the quality of workmanship, which led to litigation. SMD was appointed to collaborate with the new design team to refurbish the building and achieve the original goals of the project. These included transforming the building into a modern, acoustically excellent space with clean lines that aligned with Goodwood’s corporate image.
Following a successful litigation process, during which expert advisors described the original building as one of the worst constructions they had encountered, all defects were rectified. The design objectives were then fully realised. A central corridor featuring timber acoustic panelling, acoustic panels, and acoustic curtain walling was installed, creating a remarkably quiet environment—even with Spitfires operating just outside. Additionally, the leaking roof was replaced, and a raised deck was added, designed to support the weight of cars, making it suitable for corporate events.
SMD are proud to be resident surveyor for the Goodwood Estate. Both the racecourse and the motor circuit are busy all year round, with 19 days of horse racing from May to October and various track days and driving experiences at the circuit. Goodwood's 12,000-acre estate is home to a 91-room hotel and an 18th century clubhouse that once housed the Duke of Richmond’s hunting hounds. The most recent addition to the estate is Hound Lodge, a luxurious 10-bedroom country retreat with its own butler and private chef. At the heart of it all sits Goodwood House, set in picturesque parkland and home to the 11th Duke of Richmond and his family.