May 18 2010

A postal ballot is taking place to ascertain whether or not the South Kintyre Community wishes to take control of RAF Machrihanish, a redundant 1,000 acre airfield.

The base, which includes one of Europe’s longest runways, has been largely empty since the mid 90’s when the military pulled out. The MoD is now keen to offload it to a community business for just £1.

Though there is little opposition to the plans sceptics question a lack of detail provided on what the community hope to achieve.

Apathy too may yet scupper the idea with a 50% turnout required for the vote to be valid.

Residents wish to purchase the land to develop for “community benefit” but if the vote is negative or fewer than half of eligible voters turn up it will be sold commercially on the open market.

Part of the vast site has already been converted into Campbeltown Airport and will not form part of any sale.

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