The Hebrides Range in Benbecula and South Uist is operated by QinetiQ on behalf of the Ministry of Defence (MoD).

The Hebrides Range Taskforce (HRTF) was created to campaign against proposals to reduce MoD operations at the Hebrides Range on the island of Benbecula.  This would have had a devastating impact on the economic sustainability of this remote and fragile community, and also severely damaged the defence capacity of the UK. 

In September 2009, the Ministry of Defence comprehensively rejected QinetiQ’s proposals to rationalise Command and Control functions at Hebrides Range on Benbecula. 

The Future

The Hebrides Range Task Force has warmly welcomed the MoD’s decision.  At the first HRTF meeting following the Minister’s announcement it was agreed that HRTF should seek to refocus efforts on identifying new opportunities for the enhancement of the Range and on identifying opportunities for the diversification of the local economy.

We are now working together to secure the long term future of the Hebrides Range, and the economic sustainability of the Uists as a whole.

Task Force activity continues, and is focused on two main areas:

• The economic strengthening and diversification of the Uists.
• The development of the capabilities and operations at the Hebrides Range.

 
About the Hebrides Range Task Force

The Hebrides Range Task Force (HRTF) is an alliance of community and business groups, politicians of all parties, the Outer Hebrides local authority and agencies committed to the development of the islands.  Task Force Members include:

• Comhairle nan Eilean Siar
• The Community (represented by Stòras Uibhist, local councillors and community councils)
• Staff Representatives (through the Trade Unions)
• Business Community Representatives
• The Scottish Government
• MP and MSP
• Highlands and Islands Enterprise
• Skills Development Scotland