HC Deb 16 February 1939 vol 343 c1942W
Major Lloyd George

asked the Secretary of State for War whether any decision has yet been reached regarding the location of the new tank range?

Sir V. Warrender

Yes, Sir. The finding of a site has presented more than usual difficulty because of the size of the area required, coupled with the topographical characteristics which are indispensable for such a range. The whole of the United Kingdom has been exhaustively surveyed and 25 different sites have been closely reconnoitred. None of these has been found to provide the essential facilities, with the exception of a site in the neighbourhood of Linney Head in Pembrokeshire, and it has accordingly been decided to purchase this area.

In reaching this decision His Majesty's Government, who have been most anxious to safeguard agricultural interests and amenity values, have been compelled to have regard to the over-riding needs of defence. It is intended to allow the public access to the site as far as possible when the range is not in use.