Report - Whitburn Rifle Shooting Range, South Tyneside - October 2013

AuntieKnickers · Oct 22, 2013

Visited with The Stig and Skapunkmetalskater

The land for the range was bought from Sir John Sherburn by the Territorial Force Association in 1912. The camp was occupied by the Regular Army throughout the First World War and wooden huts were built for a garrison approaching battalion strength. A trench system was dug using the characteristic â€˜Greek Keyâ€™ pattern of firing bays and communication trenches. After the war the camp reverted to the Territorial Association until the Regular Army returned between1939-45. During this period, some of the trenches of the earlier war were re-excavated. By 1953 the wooden huts of the First War were replaced by the modern brick bungalows which today stand on the range. This work was carried out between 1954 and 1962, providing accommodation for approximately 250 troops. During the 1960s the Royal Engineers carried out ground clearance works, eliminating the â€˜bumps and hollowsâ€™ between the butts and the camp and removing almost all traces of the trench system. At the same time concrete pillboxes were demolished and destroyed.

Planning proposals have been issued for the demolition of the barracks, officers mess, workshops, stores, classrooms as well as the two storey house. Once demolition is complete 42 luxury accommodation in keeping with the character of the local are will be built.