MOD plans which will see scores of soldiers returning from bases in Germany could lead to mains gas coming to Ludgershall.

Most of the town is without mains gas connection but that could all change as 4,000 additional Army personnel move into the Tidworth and Bulford garrison.

While no additional troops are going to be based in Ludgershall, MoD planners are eyeing up several areas around the town for significant military housing on land it already owns.

Tidworth Area Board chairman Cllr Chris Williams, said: “The Defence Infrastructure Organisation is looking at every bit of land between Ludgershall and Larkhill. 

“There is land in Ludgershall close to footpath three and between the vehicle depot and Perham and there is every chance that some of it will be developed.

“The Army do like their creature comforts and central heating.”

The case for the majority of Ludgershall to be connected to mains gas has been made for many years.

Details of the Army plans are to be made part of a special area board meeting being held to discuss the matter. It is expected to take place on 3 March with the venue likely to be Wellington Academy.

The meeting will include members from the Amesbury and Pewsey area boards as they will also see significant increases in their troop numbers.