Air River Ltd, a renewable energy company based in Magherafelt, has submitted a pre-application notice to Mid Ulster Council for a mixed-use development on lands in Ardboe, County Tyrone.

The site, formerly occupied by the Royal Air Force southeast of Mullanahoe Road, served as an airfield during World War II. Construction started in 1940 and finished in 1942. The US Army Air Forces took control in 1943, using it as Station 238 for bomber crew training. It returned to RAF control in 1944 and closed in June 1945.

Plans call for converting the existing airfield control tower into an exhibition centre. Developers propose Nissen hut-style glamping pods that reflect the site's military history.

Additional elements include an extension to an existing solar array farm, new office units, two industrial units with offices, sports facilities, parking and access from Kilmascally Road.

No supporting evidence accompanied the pre-application notice. Approval would allow submission of a detailed application for outline or full planning permission.