THE continued use of Dartmoor National Park for military exercises is essential in ensuring soldiers receive the best training possible, according to the Army. The principle licence for the military to train on Dartmoor expires in 2012. An extensive process of study, review and public consultation has now begun, prior to re-negotiation of the licences. An important milestone in this continued debate has been reached with the completion of an environmental appraisal. But critics of the report are ?disappointed? by its lack of concessions. Chief among these is the lack of accessibility created by the military?s presence, particularly their live firing exercises. The military have had a presence on Dartmoor for 200 years ? far longer time than the area has been a National Park. Lt Col Tony Clark, Commandant of the Defence Training Area, said: ?Dartmoor is incredibly important to the military. We are wholeheartedly committed to the moor itself and its continued preservation.? Dartmoor is used by the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Territorial and Regular Army, the Officers? Training Corps of Exeter and Bristol universities as well as cadet groups. Soldiers undergo intensive and continued training in order to maintain a constant state of readiness. Lt Col Clark said: ?Training is the most important thing we do in peacetime. Dartmoor, and the rigours that face soldiers when they are up there, is vital to our training needs. ?The moor is a very special place for us. It is in our own interests to look after it. The soldiers are briefed on how to care for the moor and how to mimimise their impact upon it.? The military, working alongside Natural England and National Parks, has helped repair tracks on the moor and worked on encouraging wildlife in some areas. Soldiers returning from Afghanistan say Dartmoor?s landscape and conditions are similar to what they faced during their time there. The remoteness, challenging terrain and changeable climate all play a part in creating essential and demanding training. There is no other suitable training area that offers this diversity. Jonathan Cardale, chief executive of the Dartmoor Preservation Association, has said that while there is a lot in the report that the DPA welcomes, it was hoping to be granted unrestricted public access to Yes Tor and High Willhays, the moor?s two highest points. While acknowledging the good work the military does, Mr Cardale said: ?Ultimately, military training restricts the public?s enjoyment of Dartmoor which, as a National Park, should remain its sole purpose. ?In the long-term we (the DPA) envisage a park with no military training. We are aware of the military?s current need for the moor and welcome the ongoing consultation.? Exhibitions, providing an opportunity for people to speak to Defence Training Estate officers and to view the environmental appraisal, will be held between 11.30am and 8pm at Tavistock Town Hall on Tuesday, October 23, the Riverside Inn, Bovey Tracey on Wednesday, October 24 and at Okehampton Charter Hall on Thursday, October 25.
