Task force wants timescales on Army move to Rosyth
Published 15 Oct 2012 15:30
9 Comments
FIFE'S Defence Transition Task Force is asking for clear timescales for the Army's move to bases at MoD Caledonia in Rosyth and RAF Leuchars.
In a letter to Philip Hammond, the Secretary of State for Defence, the task force reiterated the need for detailed information at an early stage so the public sector and local communities are aware of the implications, and can plan for demand for services such as education and health.
Fife Council leader Alex Rowley, chair of the task force, said, "We have worked very closely with the Defence Infrastructure Organisation over the last few months to assist in the information gathering for the capacity studies at Leuchars and Rosyth.
"Fife is committed to preparing for any service provision issues arising from the transition to the Army and we welcome the continuing engagement of the MoD as we move towards the transition.
"However, it's vital that we have an early indication of the numbers and make up of incoming Army personnel to allow service planning activities to be undertaken effectively.
"Any prolonged gap from the time that the RAF stands down at RAF Leuchars and the basing of the Army at both Fife sites could have very significant implications for the continuation of services during that time.
"The continuing uncertainty over the timescales for the decision-making process and lead in time for responding to the changes means that the current position is very difficult for all concerned.
"We are calling for clarity on the nature and scale of the incoming Army to Fife as soon as possible to allow Fife's partners to plan effectively for the continuing provision of services as the local communities welcome the Army to Leuchars and Rosyth.
"We are seeking an urgent meeting with Philip Hammond in London to discuss these matters further."
This article appeared in Dunfermline Press 15 Oct 12
Have your say. Post a comment on this article.
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kaka30
327 posts
Oct 15, 19:04
Report commentSurely the implications of the Army moving into the Bases are that they will bring extra spending to the local economies.
Recommend?
Yes 7
No 5
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hottie2
44 posts
Oct 15, 23:13
Report commentI don't think it will happen.i don't trust the Conservative party
Recommend? Yes 6
No 3
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ChuckD
65 posts
Oct 16, 09:53
Report commentThe Army will bring extra spending to the local economy but the extra numbers of people will also put more pressure on local infrastructure which will need money spent on it to cope.
A 'heads up' if and when the move happens would be greatly appreciated
Recommend? Yes 6
No 5
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Ooosh!
31 posts
Oct 16, 14:03
Report commentFrom experience in the past this will not be as welcoming as one might think. Im not sure if other users are aware on what Dunfermline at night turns into when we get troops home on shore leave?
Monday through to Sunday nights are usually awash with a lot more ill tempered people than normal (and thats saying something). The pubs and clus will no doubt reap the benefits of the relocation but it will take its toll on joe public.
I am not tarring all all the same brush but there is always the small majority who ruin it for everyone and its a pity.
Recommend? Yes 7
No 6
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MrUnderstood
26 posts
Oct 16, 14:07
Report commentIm not usre your comment is as clear as it should read A-Smith!
I agree that this MAY bring a increase in violence to our streets on the weekend and evening due to alcohol BUT it also may bring a lot more capital to local businesses and allow them to expand making the town prosper.
Double edge sword. No matter what happens someone will disagree.
Recommend? Yes 7
No 2
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kaka30
327 posts
Oct 16, 15:18
Report commentI was a youngster when there was allways a Fleet in & the pubs in Dunfermline were busy on week nights. Looking back it was great but you just took it for granted then, as for an increase in violence, i doubt very much if there would be any real upturn. I know the media would have you believe different but i think Dunfermline is a safer place now at nights than it was in the 80s & 90s. Im quite sure ALL local businesses would welcome the increase in spending.
Recommend? Yes 10
No 1
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TheBruce
34 posts
Oct 16, 16:40
Report commentSame old adage if you go looking for trouble you will find it, regardless of location or population. All service personnel are subject not only to civil and criminal law but also Military Law, therefore the majority are well versed and skilled at choosing their options with regards conduct. However it won't do the local NED's any harm to be put back in their box's once in a while, which usally happens, especially if it is returning front line units that are to be stationed locally. I would buy tickets for that :-).
Recommend? Yes 11
No 1
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redrobin
294 posts
Oct 17, 13:52
Report commentTheBruce makes excellent points in his first paragraph, however the second paragraph makes no sense whatsover.
He has money to burn if he thinks it would be entertainment.
Good game good game
Recommend? Yes 0
No 2
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Dutchy71
2 posts
Oct 17, 15:06
Report commentIt a great thing to see a hope of more footfall for our local economy and communities.
However as a resident of the Rosyth Dockyard area, it makes sense that Fife Council needs to be reacting more to the mess the community areas are in now and not wait until we have extra families and personnel to cater for.
Since the Navy pulled out the area has fallen into disrepair with no community facilities for the youth or elderly, the footpaths and roadways are in poor repair and the sewage and waste system is now at breaking point with regular blockages and flooding due to overbuilding.
As for the social aspect of the new community, the lads and lasses of the armed forces have a lot to answer for if they are involved in any bother.........perhaps more than those in civilian life.
Recommend? Yes 1
No 0
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