MP calls for MoD to halt camp homes demolition

MP calls for MoD to halt camp homes demolition

8 February 2017

THE Ministry of Defence has been asked to overturn its controversial decision to bulldoze 200 homes at Ballykinlar army base.

The Recorder exclusively revealed last week that military chiefs have rejected appeals to make a range of three and four bedroom homes formerly occupied by officers, soldiers and their families available to help ease the district’s social housing shortage.

The homes at the Abercorn Barracks complex have been empty since 2 Rifles moved from Ballykinlar to Thiepval Barracks in Lisburn over two years ago.

While part of the Ballykinlar base continues to be used by the police and army and other members of the emergency services for training, the homes are in a separate part of the expansive complex. But army chiefs say they will be bulldozed for “operational reasons.” No timescale for the demolition work has been confirmed.

South Down MP Margaret Ritchie, who believes the army homes could be developed for the benefit of the local community, is seeking a meeting with 

MoD Minister Mark Lancaster in a bid to have the MoD decision overturned.

“The development of this housing stock has the potential to bring economic benefit to the area and first class housing situated in a very scenic part of South Down,” said Miss Ritchie.

“I am aware that local developers would be keen to take on these homes and this could be done in partnership with a social housing provider or on a private basis.”

Miss Ritchie suggested the MoD appear to be looking at the Ballykinlar homes as “simply an asset it no longer requires and see the answer as demolition.”

She continued: “This decision must be reviewed and the MoD must look at the needs of the community. The houses in question are in a separate part of the site to that used by army reserves for training purposes and no closer than current housing developments in the area to the camp. 

“The community in Ballykinlar has for generations worked alongside the camp and the families that lived there and also welcomed the children and families into their community. The MoD must look at its role now in giving back a positive legacy to the local community; one that will not only provide housing in a settled and scenic environment, but that will bring economic benefit to the area.”

Miss Ritchie confirmed she hopes to meet Minister Lancaster in the coming weeks and will be discussing her suggestions in detail with him.

The MP added: “I will be outlining the positive social and economic legacy retaining these homes this could be for the MD and the local community.”