§ Mr. RedmondTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will list the(a) representations and (b) proposals he has received in respect of RAF station Greenham Common; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Hanley[holding answer 1 December 1993]: Since the beginning of 1993 my Department has received representations and proposals concerning: the removal of the airfield perimeter fencing on Crookham common and its reinstatement as a common with public access; the establishment of a monument to the cold war; the preparation of a planning brief by the district council for the reuse of surplus property, which envisages the creation of open space on Greenham common; the long-term reuse of the former American school; and the short-term use of the various facilities. All of these are being considered.
Our managing agents—Vail-Williams of Reading—have received over 200 inquiries and proposals for short-term lettings of the various facilities.
These inquiries include the following uses:
- Equestrian facilities
- Temporary film studios
- Open storage for vehicles
- Indoor storage
- Offices
- Leisure activities
The district council has consented to the principle of short-term lettings—subject to resolution of any planning issues—and planning applications have been made covering these proposals.
The district council has now produced a draft planning brief for public consultation; once adopted this should assist with the planning and future use of the surplus property.