The arrangement was driven by the provisions of the EU Habitats Directive, which aims to protect wild plants, animals and habitats. This created a network of protected areas of international importance called Natura 2000. Several of the military training areas used by the British Forces in Germany fall within the Natura 2000 network, principally Senne and Stapel. The arrangement sets out measures to protect the nature and landscape of the Natura 2000 sites used for military training purposes.
During negotiations for the arrangement, DE’s European Division Land Management Services and Defence Training Estate Germany (DTE G) worked closely with the British Forces Liaison Organisation (Germany) and the Defence Legal Services to ensure that it represented military training needs, alongside conservation issues.
In order to implement the signed agreement, an advisory, non-executive working group including members of DE European Division and DTE G will be established. This group will advise on the necessary conservation measures and monitoring regime, and prepare an integrated management plan, with the aim of guaranteeing the balance between military requirements and Natura 2000 conservation obligations.
Terry Williams, DE Operations International European Division Environmental Advisor said:
"To date, the Senne and Stapel troop training areas have been maintained without the need for such a formal and comprehensive plan.
"Through the working group and plan framework, all parties can demonstrate transparency and common consensus in efforts taken to maintain military effectiveness and sustain this valuable ecological and cultural asset."