Tri-Service

MoD In Talks Over 'Full Disposal' Of RAF Halton

The Ministry of Defence is in talks to fully close RAF Halton by 2022.

It was announced in November that the airfield would be disposed of as part of cost-cutting measures, although it now appears the entire base will be axed.

An MoD spokesperson told Forces TV:

"The MoD can confirm that we are in consultation with Aylesbury Vale District Council regarding our intent to dispose of the whole of the RAF Halton site. This is in line with the 'Better Defence Estate' Strategy, which seeks to optimise the defence footprint, and contribute to the government's housing target."

The move to dispose of the base, one of the UK's largest RAF stations, is part of plans to reduce the defence estate across the country.

Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon told Aylesbury MP David Lidington in a letter that the MoD intends to close Halton within six years.

Mr Lidington, meanwhile, told local radio station Mix 96 that he was disappointed by the decision and wants to see more evidence that it's the right move.

He also expressed concerns over the future of the historic Halton House:

"I am deeply disappointed by today's announcement of the proposed closure of RAF Halton by 2022. This would mean the end of close relationships that have existed for a century between the Royal Air Force and not only Halton Parish, but Aylesbury, Wendover and other local communities."

"I completely understand the reasons why the Ministry of Defence is seeking to rationalise its estate, concentrate its activities into fewer bases and realise the value of surplus land. I can understand too that from an RAF point of view it makes sense to co-locate the training of RAF officers and other ranks in one place.

"However, I find the business case for closing RAF Halton to be unconvincing. In particular, there will be a significant cost to providing new facilities at RAF Cranwell and the RAF has never in the past found a way in which to dispose of its significant liability in respect of Halton House.

"This [Halton House] is a Rothschild listed building which the Ministry of Defence has a legal duty to keep in good repair, but which was never designed as residential accommodation and would not convert at all easily to either a hotel or domestic housing.
"I've already spoken to the Defence Secretary Michael Fallon to make clear my concerns and to ask him to provide additional evidence to justify his decision."

"I've also pressed him for a commitment that if the closure does go ahead, the Ministry of Defence will do everything that it can to help civilian employees who may face redundancy to find alternative work.

"I will of course make myself available to any constituents seeking advice or support in light of this announcement."