Clive Barracks: Zero input on ideas for base's future
North Shropshire MP Owen Paterson has spoken of his disappointment that no residents have come forward to say how they would like an army barracks redeveloped when it closes.
Mr Paterson is yet to hear from any of his constituents about what they would like to see Clive Barracks in Tern Hill turned into when the 1st Battalion The Royal Irish Regiment leaves by 2020.
The former Environment Secretary said people should have their say now rather than leave it too late.
"I have had literally zero responses," Mr Paterson said. "I am really interested in people's ideas. I know it seems a long way off but we want to get onto this now.
"We are talking about the potential to create a new town here.
"It could really enhance the area, bringing job opportunities and increase Market Drayton's economy."
Mr Paterson, who set up the Tern Hill Task Force group, said it will now look at which other land near to Clive Barracks could become available when redevelopment starts.
"We want to have a good look around the site itself and establish exactly how big it is," he said.
The MoD, which revealed the site in Tern Hill will close by 2020 and has the potential to provide land for up to 600 houses, has said the money from the sales will be ploughed back into defence spending.
To find out how to contact Mr Paterson visit www.owenpaterson.org/contact.
