Plans have been submitted to build a new 50-metre firearms range at Crabbe for the States of Jersey Police.

It would also be used by the wider shooting community, international competitors, and the Ministry of Defence.

A specialist unit within the police force is qualified and authorised to use firearms and is called upon to respond to any situations that require an armed response.

Jersey currently does not have such a facility to complete the necessary training. At the moment, officers who undertake this training have to regularly travel off-island.

Designers DRP Architectural says the proposed site is between the 600yard and Clay Pigeon Range - which is suitable as it is not in use, is not contaminated, will be close to the existing range, and will achieve police training requirements.

At the 50m firing point, there would be a shelter to provide cover for the police whilst using the range. 

A 2.4m high-security wire fence would be installed around the site, with wire swing vehicle access gates that are locked and controlled by the police.

"In order for our police force to be able to best protect islanders, we must ensure they have access to the most suitable and highest quality of training resources. I am fully supportive of this application for a new States of Jersey Police range at Crabbe. 

"The range will also promote Jersey’s sporting interests by providing excellent facilities to the benefit of the wider shooting community, tourists and international competitors, as well as the Ministry of Defence by being able to train on the range which will meet their standards." - Deputy Gregory Guida, Home Affairs Minister.

If planning approval is given - a building control application would be submitted, a construction tender process would be undertaken and work would then start to construct the range.

"We very much welcome the proposals and plans to develop a new firearms range on the Island. We know that the best way to learn is through practical scenarios in conditions we would genuinely face; to have that resource available to us means we are in the best position we can be to carry out our duties and protect islanders." - Sergeant Chris Thomas, Chief Firearms Instructor at the States of Jersey Police.

Picture Credits: DRP Architectural