HC Deb 27 July 1979 vol 971 c508W
Mr. Alan Clark

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether he has reached conclusions about the transfer of small arms ranges on Willsworthy to a site outside Dartmoor.

Mr. Hayhoe

As recommended by Lady Sharp in her report on the use of Dartmoor for military training, the MOD has considered the possibility of transferring the small arms ranges on Wills-worthy to a site outside Dartmoor national park. The Secretaries of State for Defence and for the Environment have concluded that, in the light of local considerations and the substantial extra costs which would be incurred, the provision of new ranges elsewhere is not practicable. MOD will, however, ensure that the reconstruction of the ranges on Wills-worthy is carried out with a view to maximising public access to the Tavy Cleave area.