Hi, I’m WO1 Jeff Elson and I’m writing this blog to update you all on the progress being made with the re-development of New Zealand Farm Camp, here on Salisbury Plain.
As you may remember, this was started at the beginning of February with a target of being open in August. That’s still the plan, and we’re now starting to make plans for the grand opening.
Upgrades
The development is going well with the road system upgrades all but complete and we are starting to see the roofs being put onto the first buildings as they become ready.
![The upgrades are progressing well. [Crown Copyright/MOD2016]](https://insideDIO.blog.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/29/2016/06/IMG-20160601-WA0001.jpg)
Our contractors, SWH, have employed up to 35 men at any one time and used 6 JCBs and an 80 ton crane with a 60m boom arm to get the roofs in place. I’m pleased to say that we’re still confident of bringing the project in more or less within budget.
![Buildings taking shape. [Crown Copyright/MOD2016]](https://insideDIO.blog.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/29/2016/06/IMG-20160601-WA0003.jpg)
Future Use
Looking at the future use of this facility, units will really enjoy the flexibility within the design to allow them to fully utilise what will be a fantastic location. The only constraint is the limits of their imagination when planning their training! Otherwise it can be used for almost anything.
Unfortunately there have been some exaggerated rumours as to what will be available. This is what the military calls a ‘Stone Tent’ not a transit camp, so there won’t be any utilities, heating, toilets or water. Units will need to book or provide what they need as they did before.
![Roofs are starting to go on some of the buildings. [Crown Copyright/MOD2016]](https://insideDIO.blog.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/29/2016/06/IMG-20160601-WA0004.jpg)
1 comment
Comment by Adrian England posted on
I've heard the public address system is something else... useful for creating "atmosphere"?