Daedalus

Historic military airfield transformed into mixed-use waterfront development integrating residential communities, high-value employment, aviation operations, heritage preservation, and public access, representing one of the south coast's most significant regeneration initiatives.

The Daedalus area encompasses the former HMS Daedalus naval air station, a 369-acre waterfront site undergoing major regeneration transformation that represents Lee-on-the-Solent's most significant development opportunity. The site's historical significance stretches across 90 years of aviation operations, from Royal Naval Air Service seaplane training in 1917 through World War II intensive operations (including the busiest south coast airfield operations on D-Day 1944) to postwar naval training and eventual decommissioning in 1996. The site's transformation from military purpose has profound implications for Lee-on-the-Solent's future. Once the busiest military airfield during World War II and a strategic naval aviation base for 57 years, the site is now transitioning to a mixed-use community integrating residential, commercial, employment, and heritage preservation functions. The Solent Airport at Daedalus retains operational aviation facilities including the aerodrome runway and associated infrastructure, enabling continued commercial aviation operations, flight training, and aviation services. The Solent Enterprise Zone attracts advanced engineering, aerospace, and technology businesses through business rate relief and regulatory incentives. Multiple aerospace suppliers, marine engineering firms, and aviation service providers have relocated to the site, creating high-value employment. The Daedalus Village housing development has delivered the first phase of 200 new homes (120 private and 80 shared ownership) with first residents moving in December 2019. Broader regeneration schemes propose nearly 350 additional homes, 24,500 square metres of employment space, 48 retirement and care apartments, commercial retail and dining facilities, and enhanced public access to the Hovercraft Museum. The Hovercraft Museum preserves the legacy of British hovercraft innovation, operating from preserved hangars at the site and providing public access to over 60 hovercraft and supporting infrastructure. Green spaces, public waterfront access routes, and sustainable development principles guide ongoing regeneration. The area represents the intersection of Lee-on-the-Solent's military heritage and its 21st-century economic future, with successful integration of historic preservation, economic development, and community benefit objectives.