1917, Vickers were awarded the contract to build the R37. To
build the ship would need a larger shed than the existing
facilities Vickers had at Barrow, and the construction
facilities at all the main construction sites were full, being
used for the production of other ships. Vickers had applied for
permission to build a hanger at Flookborough, larger than their
two existing sheds. They were originally granted permission and
allocated the steel needed, but with the pressures of war this
was later refused due to a shortage of steel. This left Vickers
with no option but to abandon the project, which was then
awarded to Shorts in Cardington. Barnes Wallis and H B Pratt set
about designing a ship which would fit within the existing shed
at Warney Island, which was used for the 23X class ship. Of
course a smaller ship would have less disposable load compared
to the other airship projects which were being undertaken.
However it was agreed to continue with the plans. Construction
of the R80 began in November of 1917