§ Mr. Matthew TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what functions are carried out in the underground site at Spring Quarry in Corsham Wiltshire; how many staff are employed there; what is the size of the site; and what plans his Department has for the disposal of any of the site. [46839]
§ Mr. SpellarSpring Quarry comprises 35 acres on the surface with a similar area underground. No functions are carried out on the site, it is vacant and has been declared surplus. No staff are employed at this site. Inspections and maintenance are carried out by contractors.
My Department is currently co-operating with North Wiltshire District Council (NWDC) and Wiltshire County Council in an EU Funded KONVER Study to identify potential uses for the site. NWDC has expressed an interest in acquiring the property and my Department is in discussion with Council Officials about the principle terms of this proposal, prior to entering detailed negotiations.
If a private treaty sale to the Council does not take place, it is likely that the property will be sold on the open market.