HC Deb 21 September 1948 vol 456 c46W
44. Mr. Prescott

asked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware of the concern among the agricultural community at the proposed extension of the shooting range at Holcombe Brook near Bury; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Mr. Shinwell

An area at Holcombe Moor, adjoining the present rifle range, is needed for use mainly at week-ends by units of the Territorial Army. There will be no firing apart from that on the rifle range itself, no use of tracked vehicles, and no restrictions of public access, except within the danger area of the range when firing is in progress. Consultations have been held between representatives of the War Department and the local authorities in an effort to meet objections to the proposal; as a result certain adjustments have been made to the boundary of the area. The proposal will shortly come before the Inter-Departmental Committee on Services Land Requirements.