A new Suffolk retirement complex with a military name reflecting its former airfield site is set to take off in a couple of months.

The Squadron House development in Eagle Way, Martlesham Heath, is due to be completed in February, offering 41 new apartments for Retirement Living.

The name Squadron House recognises the location’s illustrious history as Martlesham Heath Airfield, which operated between 1917 and 1963.

READ MORE: Martlesham: New homes' name reflects site military history

RAF Martlesham Heath was used by Fighter Command during World War II, with well-known pilots including Douglas Bader based there.

It also played a key role in the development of Airborne Interception Radar, which aids night fighters and interceptors in locating and tracking other aircraft.

In November 2022, David Meacham, divisional sales and marketing director for developers McCarthy Stone, told the EADT: “The choice of Squadron House as a name for this development reflects the unique heritage of the site as a military base and in particular its role in World War II.

East Anglian Daily Times: How the kitchen will look at one of the new Squadron House homesHow the kitchen will look at one of the new Squadron House homes (Image: McCarthy Stone)"It will offer all the benefits of a rural location in terms of scenery and tranquillity, but with access to shops, cafes and restaurants, as well as convenient transport links to nearby towns, villages and the coast.

READ MORE: How much do you know about these former Suffolk RAF airbases?

“We’re already receiving a significant number of enquiries from people seeking to enjoy an independent retirement at Squadron House and would urge anyone else interested to get in touch as soon as possible.”

The scheme will feature 25 one-bedroom and 16 two-bedroom apartments for the over-60s and they will be available to reserve off-plan.

READ MORE: Martlesham news

Martlesham Parish Council and East Suffolk Council planners were concerned that the development would mean a loss of car parking in the village but McCarthy Stone has committed to provide a public car park as a "significant long-term asset for the village".

The replacement car park will be gifted to the parish council as soon as the development is complete.

READ MORE: Suffolk news