[Münster Osnabrück Airport] Greven Airfield Project c.1968-69 Album of Original Construction Photographs

A marvellous collection of 53 photographs housed in a contemporary PVC covered album, detailing the work carried out by the British Army during 1968-69 in clearing the area at Greven as well as the construction of the airfield. The photographer would appear to have been officially endorsed by the army as the access is quite remarkable, including officials having site meetings, heavy plant at work as well as the odd mishap (a tank buried in a swamp) etc. There are also a number of aerial views, both before and after the majority of the work had been carried out.

During 1967 the German authorities approached the British Army for assistance in building an airfield at Greven to serve the Münster-Osnabrück area. An airstrip already existed, however the site was heavily wooded and had a badly drained swampy area, additionally it was near to the Dortmund-Ems-Canal which had been bombed during the war and it was known that unexploded bombs existed in the area. By March 1968 it was agreed that the British Army would clear and level an area 2120 metres long and between 400-500 metres wide for a runway to be used to land aircraft of the size of a BAC 1-11 or Trident. Work began in April 1968 and was carried out by 16 Field Squadron Royal Engineers, as well as RE units from all over the British Army of the Rhine - particularly 43 Field Support Squadron providing manpower and plant. Despite many problems, the project was completed on June 30th 1969 and within a few days of the planned date. The airport was constructed afterwards and was opened on March 27th 1972.

Various sizes up to 230x165mm., the photographs are loosely inserted into the album by photo corners (with tissue interleaving), as well as a few loose (showing the construction of a bridge). Overall in fine condition.