Reports of antisocial behaviour prompt military land warnings

MEMBERS of the public are being asked to use local Ministry of Defence (MoD) land responsibly.

This follows a series of incidents of antisocial behaviour and parties, fires and unauthorised vehicles on land across Rushmoor and Hart.

Representatives from Rushmoor Borough Council, Hart District Council, Hampshire Constabulary, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service and the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (MoD) met to discuss the issue and are now keen to remind residents about what activities are not allowed on MoD land locally, including Hawley Woods in Hart and Caesars Camp/ Long Valley near Aldershot.

Over recent months there have been a number of significant gatherings in Hawley Woods with large amounts of litter left behind, including glass bottles. There has also been an increase of people swimming in the lake, putting themselves in danger because of the hidden obstructions under the water. This is despite the ‘No Swimming’ warning signs.

There have been several deliberate fires in the area, resulting in significant damage to MoD land nearby and significant cost to both Hampshire and Surrey Fire and Rescue Services – estimated in the tens of thousands of pounds. Dog waste also continues to cause significant issues to ongoing military training.

Residents have been affected by negative behaviour, in particular by the rowdy and inconsiderate behaviour of people parking in the area and then going onto the land. There have been incidents of late-night noise nuisance, criminal damage to properties and verbal abuse.

There are bylaws governing the land, which include restrictions on camping, fires (including barbecues), littering, causing nuisance, damage to trees, digging and illegal vehicles getting onto the estate including motorbikes. Breaches of these could lead to prosecution.

People are also being asked to familiarise themselves with the warning flag system used on the live firing areas including Caesars Camp/Long Valley. If red flags are displayed, no access is allowed and anyone going onto the land could be seriously hurt.

Dean Howard, the deputy security and public access officer for the Defence Infrastructure Organisation, said: “The MoD supports access to the military training areas and respects the public’s enthusiasm for wanting to explore it. In return, they ask everyone to respect the very real dangers associated with doing so. Whether they are dog walkers, mountain bikers or ramblers, everyone should stick to main tracks and paths. If a red flag is flying then access to that area is prohibited, as live firing will be taking place.

“Also, some of the training areas are out of bounds when in use for military training, as indicated by locked gates and signs or notices – we encourage the public to check the gov.uk website for closures of these areas before heading out.”

Residents can report antisocial behaviour to Hampshire Constabulary on 101, or by contacting their council community safety team. They can report non-emergency issues on MoD land to the ops room at Longmoor on 01420 483405. All emergency issues should be reported to 999.