TRUSTEES and supporters of Bournemouth Aviation Museum in Christchurch are “hopeful” a scheme to secure their future will be backed by Christchurch council.

The museum, which is situated in the Green Belt car park of the children's theme park Adventure Wonderland, opposite Bournemouth Airport, has applied for permanent use of the land, following a three-year temporary stay of execution two years ago.

In 2007, the museum, run as a charitable trust, was forced to close after the lease on their hanger and adjoining areas was not renewed by Bournemouth Airport owners.

David Marsh, the trustee dealing with the application, said: “We are hopeful.

“The signs are better than ever.

“We have been to several places in and around Christchurch and Bournemouth to look for alternative sites, but we have been unsuccessful.

“Unless we get planning permission then it is likely that we would not open beyond next year.”

He added: “I am confident that, after last time, the council will be sympathetic.”

A statement with the museum’s application says, if allowed, the trust will be able to invest further in the museum, as they are currently “mindful of the temporary nature of their presence on the site and of the need to relocate to an as yet unidentified location”.

The trustees believe a number of special circumstances weigh in their favour.

These include the necessity of their close location to the airport and the unsuccessful search for new premises.

They also believe the local heritage and educational aspects of the museum are important factors.