Security fences installed to support cadet return at Crowborough Army Camp
The measures are aiming to boost safety
Security fencing work has started at Crowborough Army Camp in East Sussex to support the return of local cadets.
The Ministry of Defence is overseeing the installation of fences around two buildings used by cadets to ensure that only they and their adult volunteers have access to these facilities.
This initiative comes after the camp was repurposed by the Home Office to house asylum seekers since January.
The current phase involves securing one building to facilitate cadet activities by the end of October, with training potentially resuming in November.
A contractor has been appointed to complete fencing around the second building, allowing Air Cadets to parade there by December.
Both fencing projects are funded by the Home Office and aim to maintain the safe and continued use of the site by cadets.
Wealden District Council, having raised concerns about the displacement of cadets due to the camp's new role, expressed its approval of the current progress.
Councillor Rachel Millward emphasised the significance of making the camp accessible to cadets, stating that they should not be disadvantaged by broader decisions regarding the site's use.
The efforts and funding provided by the Home Office have been acknowledged as a step in the right direction.
Councillor James Partridge reflected on the positive implications for the young people utilising these facilities, shedding light on the council's continuous advocacy for the cadets' interests.
Crowborough Army Camp's utilisation for accommodating asylum seekers is projected to continue until 2030.
Since June, cadets have gradually returned to the site's facilities following displacement in December last year.