§ Earl Attleeasked Her Majesty's Government:
What progress the Ministry of Defence has made with the refurbishment or redevelopment of Marne Barracks at Catterick; and what use will be made of the barracks in the future; and [HL1652]
Whether the redevelopment of Marne Barracks at Catterick is being impeded by residual gliding activities at that location [HL1653]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanMarne Barracks is occupied by 5 Regiment Royal Artillery and 8 Transport Regiment Royal Logistic Corps. From 2003, 8 Transport Regiment will expand to include two further squadrons and in order to accommodate this increase it is proposed that part of the airfield should be built over. Precise details have yet to be confirmed, but it is envisaged that glider activity by 645 Volunteer Glider School at the airfield will be affected. An option study to identify an alternative site for the Gliding School is under way, but, in the meantime, gliding activity does not impede the current redevelopment.
Currently, work is under way at Marne Barracks to upgrade the gymnasium and it is expected that this work will be complete by the end of September. In addition, a new Surveillance and Target Acquisition Training Centre should be completed at the end of the year. A major refurbishment of the single living accommodation will commence at the end of 2001.