Melksham Air Cadets left in the dark over building closure

Residents have voiced frustration over the ongoing closure of the 2385 Melksham Squadron Air Cadets building in Bowerhill, which has left local cadets travelling to Bradford-on-Avon for their twice-weekly meetings.

Up to 20 cadets are being transported by minibus or with parents to gather in a single room at the Bradford-on-Avon squadron. Residents say this is not a suitable long-term arrangement due to transport difficulties, lack of space and limited facilities, and they fear numbers are now declining from what was once a thriving squadron of more than 60 young people.

The building at Lancaster Road was closed in February after a safety report advised that remedial work was needed. Members said they were told in March that refurbishment would go ahead and that funding had been set aside.

In August the squadron was told that refurbishment would take place in October/November. But in September, when the contents of the building were due to be transferred to storage, this was cancelled at the last moment and the squadron was told that the building was now closed indefinitely, with no reason given.

The Royal Air Force Air Cadets’ chief-of-staff promised to clarify why the building remained out of bounds, but no update has been given. Despite repeated attempts by residents to obtain information, including involving local councillors and MP Brian Mathew, they say that there is no progress in finding out why the squadron building has remained closed.

One resident said, “This is nowhere near to the full experience they were offered and a well-equipped and staffed flight simulator room.

“This has been a thriving squadron of up to 60 cadets now depleting due to these ongoing circumstances. Some cadets are missing out completely as they are unable to get to this alternative venue.

“The building in Bowerhill has been closed without any clear reason given and no date for when they will be able to return. Considering there is new government funding set aside with the intention of growing the country’s cadet force by 30% by 2030, it’s hard to imagine why the dedicated, keen, enthusiastic youngsters of Melksham town have been left out in the cold.

“Staff, the fundraising committee, parents and cadets are all very frustrated by the situation – particularly as no-one seems willing or able to clarify why the building can’t be re-opened.”

“The refusal of the MOD to communicate any information regarding the future of the squadron has left those who operate it with the distinct impression that the intention is to close it for good. Bearing in mind the long tradition of the Air Cadets in the Melksham community, this would be a tragic loss of a very valuable resource for young people in the area.”

Bowerhill has a strong historical tie with the RAF as the area was used as an RAF training facility during World War II.

A spokesperson from the MOD said, “There is no plan to permanently close or move the Squadron. The intention is to refurbish the current building to ensure it meets the necessary standards for safe and effective use.”