CONCERNS have been raised that plans to fence off rifle ranges in Colchester to counter vandalism are “a ruse” to cover Ministry of Defence plans to redevelop a much-loved green space.

A planning inspector has heard arguments for and against Colchester Council’s application to divert a footpath across Middlewick Ranges, which would allow the Army to fence off the ranges.

Town MP Bob Russell said: “It is my belief the application is the initial move in a longer-term aim by the MoD to declare land at Middlewick surplus to military requirements, with the aim of releasing land as a future site for residential development.

“I am particularly keen to see this part of Middlewick remain as a natural area of open space.”

Mr Russell cited proposals by the MoD in 2006 to build barracks on the site and a concrete crushing plant, both of which were withdrawn.

But Lieutenant Colonel Simon Lloyd, regional commander of the Defence Training Estate, said he was not aware of any plans for redeveloping the ranges, which he described as “critical to our national defence”.

He said: “I hope nobody is making me work my butt off to secure suitable training ranges, if they’re not going to be used as such.”

Between January and October last year the Army lost 333 man training days to vandalism and 18 people walked on to the ranges during live firing.

Repairing damage caused by vandals has cost £25,500 since 2006.

Lt Col Lloyd said: “The MoD is always positive about allowing people on to its land, provided it is safe and compatible with training requirements, and regrets this proposal has to be made, but it is the most proportionate and effective response to the problems.

“Without the fence, we could not continue to use Middlewick Ranges given the costs involved. We would try and move training to Fingringhoe ranges, but that is already operating at capacity so soldiers would have to be bussed out of Colchester.”

Residents argue the fence would deny them access to the land off Mersea Road.

Beryl Cox, of Queen Elizabeth Way, raised concerns that the diverted footpath would cause safety problems, with walkers trapped against the fence and unable to get away from dangerous dogs or grass fires.

“The prison-style fence will also ruin the visual amenity of the area,” she said.

“I have lived here all my life, and enjoyed the beautiful area daily.”

Berechurch councillor Dave Harris called for “co-existence” between local residents and the Army to eliminate the need for the fence, with a Neighbourhood Watch-style group set up.

“I think patrols by local people and a hotline to report damage would help,” he said.

The hearing continues.