# MoD Training Estate Guidance

![](https://www.hampshireramblers.org.uk/images/hampshire_area_map_1.gif)

## Introduction

This guidance has been produced by the Ramblers to assist walkers in understanding their rights and responsibilities when crossing land which is part of the Ministry of Defence (MoD) Training Estate. It also provides information for members who may wish to engage with the MoD on access issues.

The MoD Training Estate covers a significant area of the UK. While much of it is accessible for walking, there are restrictions in place for safety reasons during periods of military training. It is essential that all walkers are aware of these restrictions and follow the guidance provided.

## Understanding the MoD Training Estate

The MoD Training Estate comprises land owned or managed by the Ministry of Defence that is used for military training purposes. This can include ranges, training areas, and barracks.

### Types of Land and Access Rights

*   **Access Land:** Some areas of the MoD Training Estate are designated as Access Land under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 (CRoW Act) in England and Wales, or the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003. This means that walkers have a statutory right to walk on this land, subject to certain restrictions.
*   **Public Rights of Way:** Public footpaths, bridleways, and byways may cross MoD land. These rights of way must generally be kept open and available for public use, although temporary closures may be necessary for safety during training.
*   **Areas with No General Access:** Certain areas, such as live firing ranges or restricted zones around military establishments, may have no general public access rights.

## Access Restrictions and Safety

The primary reason for access restrictions on the MoD Training Estate is safety. Live firing, explosions, and the movement of military vehicles can pose significant risks.

### Warning Signals and Notices

*   **Flags:** Red flags are often used to indicate danger. If you see red flags, do not enter the area.
*   **Sirens:** Sirens may be used to warn of impending danger, such as live firing.
*   **Signage:** Clear signage should be present at access points indicating restrictions, permitted routes, and danger areas. Always heed these signs.

### Temporary Closure Orders

The MoD has the power to temporarily close public access to parts of its estate for safety reasons. These closures are usually advertised in advance.

*   **Local Notices:** Check for local notices at the entrance to the training area.
*   **MoD Websites:** Some MoD training areas have dedicated websites providing information on range closure schedules. Check these regularly before your visit.
*   **Ramblers Local Groups:** Your local Ramblers group may have up-to-date information on specific areas.

## Your Responsibilities

When walking on or near the MoD Training Estate, it is vital to act responsibly to ensure your own safety and the safety of others, and to maintain good relations with the MoD.

### Staying Safe

*   **Check Before You Go:** Always check for current restrictions and training schedules before visiting an area.
*   **Respect Notices and Warnings:** Never ignore warning signs, flags, or sirens.
*   **Keep to Permitted Paths:** If specific routes are designated, stay on them.
*   **Avoid Areas with Military Activity:** If you encounter military vehicles or personnel, keep a safe distance and follow their instructions.
*   **Do Not Touch Military Equipment:** Never touch or interfere with any military equipment, including ordnance (even if it appears old or disused).

### Environmental Responsibility

*   **Leave No Trace:** Take all litter with you.
*   **Protect Wildlife and Vegetation:** Do not disturb wildlife or damage plants.
*   **Control Dogs:** Keep dogs under close control at all times, especially near livestock or military activity.

## Engaging with the MoD

The Ramblers aims to secure and protect the right to walk on the MoD Training Estate wherever possible, while respecting the needs of the military.

### Reporting Issues

If you encounter problems with access, signage, or safety on the MoD Training Estate, please report them to:

*   **The MoD Site Manager:** Contact details are usually available on site or via the MoD website.
*   **Your Local Ramblers Group:** They can advise on the best course of action and may already be liaising with the MoD.
*   **The Ramblers National Office:** For significant or widespread issues.

### Access Forum Meetings

The MoD holds Access Forum meetings in some areas. These provide a platform for discussion between the MoD, access organisations (including the Ramblers), and other stakeholders. Your local Ramblers group can provide information on whether such forums operate in your area and how you can get involved.

## Useful Resources

*   **GOV.UK - Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO):** Provides information on the MoD Estate and access. [https://www

**To: All Ramblers walks leaders wishing to utilise the MoD Training Estate in Hampshire and Surrey.**

Many of you will be aware of the guidance about walks planned to take place on MoD land locally which was published in 2014 on the Hampshire and Surrey Area websites. After more than six years, this advice has been updated to reflect the current situation.

**This guidance document updates and replaces the 2014 version.**

## Background

The Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) administers MoD land to enable army training to be undertaken safely. Recently, there has been some confusion regarding the requirement to notify walks in advance. The MoD has increased its use of these lands for training as forces have withdrawn from areas in Germany and elsewhere.

The Ramblers are members of the **Local Access Forums**, which established an MoD Liaison group to work with the military on all aspects of access. Representatives from Hampshire and Surrey Ramblers met with the DIO recently to clarify the situation for groups of walkers.

## Notification Procedure

Public access to MoD land is determined by Byelaws (currently under review). In the meantime, we have agreed that walk leaders will notify the details of any walk that enters MoD lands.

* **Contact:** Email Dean Howard (DIO) at [Dean.Howard966@mod.gov.uk]
* **Required Details:**
* Date and time of the walk.
* Proposed route on MoD lands.
* Contact email and telephone number.

### How the System Works

The walk will be entered into the DIO log. If a clash with a training exercise occurs, the DIO will contact the walk leader to manage the potential conflict.

**Please Note:** This is **NOT** a booking system for Ramblers Groups. It is an exchange of information to determine if particular parts of the Training Estate are in use on a specific day.

## Emergency Protocol

If you have an emergency while on MoD lands (e.g., you require an ambulance), you **must** contact the DIO so they can facilitate access for emergency vehicles.

**Emergency Contact Numbers:** **01420 483405** or **01420 483407**

## Queries and Contact Information

If you have any questions regarding this guidance, please contact:

* **Alan Marlow**, _Hampshire Area Footpath & Access Officer_: [atmarlow444@gmail.com](mailto:atmarlow444@gmail.com)
* **Brian Reader**, _Surrey Ramblers Area Council_: [ramblingref@gmail.com](mailto:ramblingref@gmail.com)

– July 2021 –