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RAF Kenley’s blast pens – brick-built E-shaped structures that sheltered fighter planes from air attack during the Second World War – had been repaired. But the mortar suffered an unexpected reaction, leaving the historic pens endangered. As a result, defences at RAF Kenley – described by Historic England as “the most historic complete fighter airfield associated with the Battle of Britain to have survived” – are said to be crumbling. The work will now need to be redone and the City of London Corporation, which owns the site, is looking into liability.

Volunteers were hoping to showcase completed renovations during this summer’s 80th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, which took place between July and October 1940.

RAF Kenley in Surrey was part of London’s frontline defence against Nazi invasion, and Spitfire and Hurricane pilots used the aerodrome during some of the most intense fighting of the Battle of Britain.

In what became known as “The Hardest Day” – Sunday, August 18, 1940 – Kenley suffered its worst attack from Luftwaffe aircraft. Nine people were killed and a dozen planes destroyed.

The Kenley Airfield Friends Group (KAFG), in partnership with the City of London and Historic England, secured £881,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund in 2015 for the Kenley Revival Project.

The initiative planned to use the funds to conserve the remaining blast pens, rifle range and fuel depot, as well as pay for a range of services including a new website.

Last night KAFG chairman Alan Morgan said that much effort had gone into getting the repairs right.

But an unexpected “sulphate” reaction had affected the mortar. He said: “The blast pens were deteriorating rapidly and the intention was to sympathetically conserve and restore them using a company that was recommended by both the Heritage Lottery Fund and Historic England.

“The contractor and Historic England worked very hard to get the right mortar mix and the correct bricks for the pens.

“However, a problem developed which has resulted in the mortar failing and effectively turning to dust.

“The cause has been identified by experts as a type of sulphate attack, and is still a matter of investigation. Further damage has been caused by water ingress into the bricks, and consequently the bricks are cracking as they freeze.

“The damage has worsened greatly and there is a lot of money involved.”

Alan added: “We are annoyed but this aside the project has been a huge success.

“I have to say the blast pens will not be left like that – too many people want to see them preserved and they will be.

“It is ironic to think these blast pens were built by local contractors during the freezing cold winter of 1939-40.

“They lasted for over 75 years compared to the recent building work which did not last through one winter.”

Britain’s former commander in Afghanistan colonel Richard Kemp, said: “RAF Kenley has a long history dating back to its use as a base by the Royal Flying Corps during the First World War.

“It was one of the most important fighter stations during the Battle of Britain, responsible for defending London.

“To pay proper tribute, including to the many who lost their lives flying from Kenley, and to maintain such an important part of our national heritage, it is vital that this damage be restituted with proper investment, supervision and respect.”

The City of London Corporation said: “We are committed to delivering this conservation project of great historical significance.”

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