POLICE say they have exhausted all lines of enquiries following an investigation into the devastating fire at Old Sarum Airfield earlier this year.

A blaze broke out on the site in the morning of April 17, destroying the derelict First World War Hangar 3 and the adjoining Hangar 3 café on Lancaster Road.

One person was arrested on suspicion or arson but was released with no further action taken.

The fire engulfed the buildings just nine days after planning permission was granted on appeal to build hundreds of homes at the site – on condition that the hangar would be restored.

Detective Sergeant at Wiltshire Police Toni Nugent said: “We know this fire caused concern in the community, particularly as it destroyed a Grade II listed property.

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“The fire report could not determine whether the fire was started deliberately or accidentally.

“We would like to thank the many people who sent footage of the incident and provided statements. We followed all relevant lines of enquiry but could not identify any further suspects.

Picture: Hangar 3 Old Sarum café

“If new evidence comes to light, we will of course investigate. I would urge anyone with information to contact us through our website or by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, which can be done anonymously.”

Wiltshire Council, who initially refused the plans for the homes which were eventually approved on appeal, announced it would launch a legal challenge against the decision to approve the plans in light of the fire.

They said that a key part of the appeal decision was the restoration of Hangar 3 – previously built by First World War German prisoners of war.

Councillor Adrian Foster, cabinet member for strategic planning, development management and housing, previously said: “The basis on which the decision was made to allow the appeal has altered following the devastating fire to the listed aircraft hangar at Old Sarum Airfield.

“Following legal advice, in light of the unusual circumstances surrounding this case, we have taken the decision to launch a legal challenge against the Planning Inspector’s decision.

“We have applied to the court to challenge the decision and we now wait to hear whether it will proceed to hearing.”