2027 Ground Layout

Shuttleworth continues to experience significant growth across both our air shows and smaller public events. We take great pride in delivering unique and memorable experiences for families and enthusiasts, showcasing everything that makes Shuttleworth special while ensuring we meet our responsibilities for safe and effective event management.

For several years, we have been monitoring the development of Martyn's Law (The Protection of Premises Act 2025) and reviewing the evolving guidance surrounding its implementation.

Throughout the 2026 season, we have begun developing our risk management framework, trialling a number of initiatives to better understand how our operations would function with various security mitigations in place. We have also hosted visits from our regional Counter Terrorism Security Advisors (CTSAs), helping us gain a clearer understanding of the expectations of local authorities and regulatory bodies within the context of our unique site and event operations.

With the implementation deadline for Martyn's Law set for April 2027, we now have a framework in place that will support the development of our risk management documentation and ensure we meet our responsibilities under the new legislation.

One of the key mitigation measures identified through this process is the removal of public vehicle parking from the main event area, known as the Front Paddocks. While this has long been a well-known and popular feature of the Shuttleworth site, the Trust has been unable to justify retaining public vehicle access within this area under the requirements of the future risk management framework.

From 2027, visitor parking will move to the parkland area behind Shuttleworth House, with clearly marked pedestrian routes leading to the main event site – a short walk from the main event area. Additional overflow parking areas will also form part of the overall parking strategy. Blue Badge parking will remain on the paddock adjacent to the event site and will continue to be supported by enhanced measures to maintain vehicle and crowd segregation. 

To ensure visitors can travel easily between the new parking areas and the event site, a range of free transport options will be available. Visitors will be able to use a land train service, volunteer-operated shuttle buggies, and our popular vintage bus service operating between Shuttleworth House and the main arena.

To help visitors familiarise themselves with the new arrangements, please refer to the example site map below, this is a proposed layout at this stage which is subject to change as we progress with the specific planning for individual events. The benefit of this layout is that it will create much more space for spectators at the heart of the event, with the exhibitors, attractions and amenities all together. This is will simplify the site layout for visitors whilst greatly enhancing their experience.

As one of the last UK air show and event venues to implement this type of change, we hope our audiences will understand that these measures have become necessary as part of our commitment to meeting new safety requirements and protecting all those who visit Shuttleworth. While some aspects of the visitor experience will change, our commitment remains the same, to deliver outstanding events and preserve the unique character of a day at Shuttleworth for everyone.

2027 Sample Air Show Map