Relief after rocket range spared 22/7/11
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and Highlands and Islands Enterprise have both welcomed the commitment to the South Uist rocket range.
Both bodies are pleased to hear of proposals for investment in range equipment such as radars, telemetry, data links, trials control system and estates.
Comhairle Leader and Chair of the Hebrides Range Taskforce (HRTF), Angus Campbell, said: "I believe this announcement represents excellent news for Hebrides Range and for the economies of the Uists and the wider Outer Hebrides. Hebrides Range has the largest area for the live firing of rockets and missiles of any UK range and as such I have always contended that it is a critical UK defence asset.
“I was pleased that the recent Strategic Defence and Security Review confirmed the
need retain the Range’s long-
Mr Campbell added: “The last number of years has been challenging for all concerned with the Range as HRTF worked to make the case for the facilities full retention and for the necessary investment upgrades.
“Today, therefore, marks an important milestone and I think we can look to the future with a greater sense of stability. Over the recent period HRTF has developed good relationships with both QinetiQ and the MOD and I am delighted that the MOD and QinetiQ have indicated that they are happy to work with HRTF on diversification issues.
“I respect this has to be undertaken within the parameters of the Range's primary
function, but I very much look forward to a new partnership-
Willy Roe, Chair of HIE, said: "This announcement from the Ministry of Defence and QinetiQ is excellent news and we at the Hebrides Range Taskforce welcome this enormously.
“The HRTF was set up over two years ago to fight to retain the base and this is the official confirmation that the campaign was successful. The power of public sector partners and the entire community coming together can not be underestimated, and the next step will be to continue this for the economic benefit of the Uists and Outer Hebrides as a whole.
“The announcement by the MOD that the Hebrides Range is not only safe in the medium term but that it is also to be invested in, is a sign of a new and exciting chapter for the Outer Hebrides."
The Comahilre and HIE were given an update of the plans by video link with the Ministry of Defence and QinetiQ,