Planning application for new IASTI Newark officially lands

The planning application for the UK’s first International Air and Space Training Institute (IASTI) in Newark has been submitted to the district council by Newark College, part of the Lincoln College Group (LCG). 

Working with Stem Architects Ltd to produce the plans, the design inspiration for the facility was predominately influenced by historic aircraft hangers and the striking characteristics of plane tail fins. IASTI has been designed to accommodate the unique requirements of the college’s aviation and aerospace courses.

LCG CEO Gary Headland said, “I am delighted that our planning application has been submitted for this inspiring and ambitious project for Newark.   Our mission is to be employer-led, producing a highly skilled and productive local workforce.

“This initiative sees bespoke programmes co-designed by the industry’s best to provide a sustainable talent pipeline. It focuses on the provision of clear vocational pathways that will create lucrative, secure careers for young people.

“With close links to many air and space sector stakeholders, it will create exciting opportunities in the military and commercial sectors.

“We want to open up aviation careers to everyone, regardless of background. Diversity, social mobility and equal opportunities are key features and pivotal to the success of the project.”

The IASTI is one of nine priority projects developed by Newark Towns Fund Board and is funded through the Government’s Towns Fund initiative.

Tom Cartledge, Co-Chair of Newark Towns Fund Board said, “Creating long term opportunities for the future generations of our town was the key pillar of our Towns Fund bid and so I am delighted to that the planning application for the very first IASTI in the UK has been submitted by our partner, Newark College – part of Lincoln College Group. 

“Along with eight other priority projects, the Towns Fund Board vision for Newark will continue to help shape our town in to somewhere people want to live, work, study and visit.  It is with much excitement and anticipation that I wait for this transformational ambition to come to life in our wonderful town and the IASTI is an integral part to our future education offer.”

LCG is working in partnership with the Royal Air Force, East Midlands Airport, Inzpire, AAR, Leonardo, Eagle Eye, Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance and the National Space Centre.

The IASTI will completely transform the way pilots, engineers and ground staff are trained.  The institute has been specifically designed to meet the needs of the air and space industry while fully integrating into the post-16 education system.

The aim is to produce the next generation of skills-matched aviation professionals, providing a shop window for civil operators to acquire fully-qualified trained pilots as well as future astronauts, engineers and ground staff.  It also offers the potential for future military co-operation.

With an expected opening date of September 2023, the new IASTI premises will be located in the centre of Newark, with easy access to the A1 and A46 which give direct routes to London, Scotland, Lincoln, Leicester and Nottingham. Two rail stations – Newark North Gate and Newark Castle – are also nearby. It will also boost the local and regional economy, bringing students in from across the UK to study higher qualifications and degree-level courses in Newark.

Until then students are based at the interim IASTI facility at the Newark College campus, where classrooms and workshops have been developed and repurposed to include industry standard equipment, including a flight simulator.  

You can apply now to start courses in pilot, groundcrew and engineer pathways at the IASTI starting in September. Click here to find out more.

Full details of the planning submission is available on Newark and Sherwood District Council’s website, reference 21/02484/FULM