Location
United Kingdom
50° 49' 50.9736" N, 50° 49' 50.9736" E

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Field Notes

Hurn Plant and Mechanical Handling Test Centre

Approached from the A303 at the turnoff at Bournemouth, this facility maintained by QinetiQ site is publicised as a ‘proving ground’. Allegedly for the testing of humanitarian mine-sweeping equipment, it is heavily fenced with some most unusual security arrangements (see image 1). The site was approached from the adjoining Hurn Country Park, where numerous nature trails and local dog walkers thoughtfully skirt the perimeter. The site is well camouflaged underneath the surrounding indigenous pine trees, and the official access point is via car from the A303 on the dual carriageway coming back from Bournemouth. Only a controlled high speed approach and exit therefore seem possible.