Plans to relocate the light infantry’s north west base in Weeton are pressing ahead, Fylde’s MP has been told.
Mark Menzies asked the Secretary of State for Defence what steps the Government was taking to improve infrastructure in the area for the upcoming expansion of Weeton barracks, and what consultations were taking place with residents in the area.
Tobias Ellwood, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence, told him: “The Ministry of Defence (MOD) announced its intention to expand Weeton Barracks in the estate optimisation strategy ‘A Better Defence Estate’ in November 2016.
“Defence is delivering this work through the Defence Estate Optimisation Programme (DEOP), with timescales looking out to 2040. Given the scale of the DEOP, and the fact that it will be delivered over 25 years, plans continue to be refined to best support operational capability.
“The MOD's intent remains the delivery of a regional light infantry centre in Blackpool, which will include the future relocation of HQ North West from Fulwood Barracks to Weeton Barracks.
“As part of this work, Defence will engage fully with Local Authorities and wider community from an early stage and will follow the normal statutory planning process regarding its redevelopment. Parliament will continue to be updated regularly on our plans.”
Mr Menzies said: "I am pleased to see the Government will fully engage with residents ahead of these changes."