The Ministry of Defence Police (MDP) often receive calls for help from people whose cars become bogged down somewhere on Salisbury Plain.  Searching for them often takes several hours and can also involve the Wiltshire Police helicopter. 

Do you know the dangers of driving on Salisbury Plain ?
Do YOU know the Law ?

The Salisbury Plain Training Area (SPTA) measures around 94,000 acres - an area about the size of the Isle of Wight.  It is governed by a series of comprehensive Bylaws - laws which detail exactly what you may or may not legally do when on MoD land.  These Bylaws are posted at all entry points onto the Plain.

In addition to this, the Road Traffic Act applies anywhere where you have legal access with a motor vehicle.  This includes roads and stone tracks as well as the many (but NOT all) unsurfaced tracks which can be driven on as designated byways or Rights of Way.  These Rights of Way can be easily identified on Ordnance Survey maps.  If you own a 4x4 vehicle or an “off road motorcycle” you will need to be “road legal” to drive on these byways, in the same manner as you would on any other road.

If you drive “off road” where no such right exists, you commit an offence under section 34 of the Road Traffic Act 1988.  The MDP do prosecute under this section - expect a fine of around £300.  For persistent offenders there is a power under the Bylaws for Police to seize vehicles and/or any other item connected with the offence and apply to the Magistrates for it to be forfeit to Her Majesty.

Remember that the SPTA is used for military exercises and therefore tracks across the Plain may have uneven surfaces and potholes and will not be suitable for all types of road vehicles.  In addition to this, anyone driving across the SPTA should be aware of the danger presented by unexploded ordnance and be prepared to meet military vehicles using the road.

There is a 30 mph speed limit on all tracks on SPTA and, although the speed limit signs do not comply with civilian regulations regarding their shape, colour and size, you should remember that a section in the Bylaws states that you must obey ALL signs on SPTA, whether military or otherwise.

A large part of the SPTA is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) because.of its rare flora and fauna as well as its numerous archaeological sites.  All are protected under the Countryside and Wildlife Act 1981, so please do not dig up or otherwise remove any plants or drive into or over any such areas : it could cost you a massive £20,000 fine !

Finally, remember that Police and Defence Estates Land Wardens patrol the area.  If you need advice, don’t take a chance, come and ask us.  You will find us very approachable !  The Land Wardens are also very knowledgeable when it comes to SPTA and the Law.

If you are a serving soldier, you may well drive off road when on duty, especially when on exercise. When you are off duty you are subject to the same laws as any other citizen.

Vehicles have on- and off-road capability and are equipped to respond immediately to all incidents requiring Police attention on MOD land.
The Ministry of Defence Police is committed to providing a service 
to all members of the Defence community

Click here to return to the Local Stories Index