THE closure of munitions depots at Fargo and Tidworth is under consideration, as part of an army plan to consolidate several depots in a single underused facility at Netheravon.

The proposal is part of a package of measures contributing to the multi-million-pound upgrade of army barracks and facilities across the Salisbury Plain area.

In response to a question from Salisbury MP Robert Key, armed forces minister Adam Ingram said: "No final decisions have yet been taken.

"A recent study has indicated that there is room for some changes or rationalisation that could lead to long-term benefits."

Mr Key said another factor that could influence the minister's decision on the future of the Fargo depot was its proximity to Stonehenge.

Mr Ingram said: "Although Fargo is not visible from Stonehenge, English Heritage has indicated that, should Fargo close, it would have a positive effect on the world heritage site."

The plans for the plain's munitions depots are expected to become clear next year.

Mr Key said: "I have had no indication of civilian redundancies in this case.

"I shall have to keep a watch on what happens."