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Boardwalks improve public access at Strensall

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Visitors to Strensall Training Area (STA), near York, can now enjoy better access to the site thanks to new boardwalks, provided by the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO),

Two of the rural walks – the black and yellow routes – have benefited from the boardwalks to improve access following localised flooding.

The work, which took approximately three weeks to complete, will make it easier for the public to gain access along the designated walks. Landmarc Support Services carried out the work on behalf of the (DIO) and funding for the enhancement work was granted under the Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) local access initiative.

Commander DTE North, Lt Col Mark Holden said:

“The introduction of the new boardwalks on the two rural walkways will make it easier for visitors to gain access along the designated walks and make it safer for them by ensuring that they do not walk in to the areas where troops train.”

Further additional work, such as adding railings, is now being carried out on the completed boardwalks.

STA is a site of great importance to wildlife and was designated as an SSSI and European SAC (Special Area of Conservation) several years ago for its heathland habitats. The site is covered by military byelaws and has open access to members of the local community, resulting in approximately 350 to 400 visitors each week

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Notes to Editors

  1. The Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) is part of the MOD. We are responsible for managing and maintaining land and properties, as well as providing related support services, to meet the current and future needs of the MOD and personnel at home and abroad, and to support current operations.2
  2. Our work includes providing, supporting and improving: operational units; single living and service family accommodation; training areas and historic military sites. DIO actively manages these and supporting services, such as soft facilities management and guarding, to ensure the needs of Defence are met, value for money is achieved, heritage protected and environmental goals achieved.

Further information:

Press enquiries to Emma Sloper, Communications Officer 0121 311 2418 or email emma.sloper100@mod.uk

DIO website: www.gov.uk/DIO