Alan told of Melton army plan
19 July 2011
Alan has been told of plans for Melton Mowbray to host army units from as early as 2017. He was told in a letter from Liam Fox that the town will be “likely to accommodate an Army unit returning from Germany” after units have earlier moved into North Luffenham.
RAF Cottesmore will be home to the first Army units returning from Germany in 2014, with North Luffenham to receive further troops in 2015/16.
Melton Borough Council and Rutland County Council have been informed and both they and Alan are awaiting further details from the Ministry of Defence which are still being decided.
Alan said, ‘The news about Melton has the potential to be good for the town, but I have contacted the Ministry of Defence to ascertain details as quickly as possible to make sure plans are put in place sensibly and appropriately. We need to make sure the character of our town is preserved.’
I welcome the army to RAF Cottesmore as it continues a proud relationship with the military. A consequence of the departure of the RAF is the loss of a number of civilian jobs. The consultation with Trade Unions at the base needs to be conducted openly and fairly so that an already painful situation for staff is not made worse.’