03/09/2026
A recent sand replacement project at Bulford Ranges on Salisbury Plain Training Area shows how circular economy principles can reduce waste while supporting the continued operation of essential Defence training facilities.
Stop butts are large banks of sand designed to capture bullets safely during live firing. They require specialist maintenance, including the removal and replacement of contaminated sand, to ensure ranges remain safe and ready for military use.
Working with social enterprise, P Cubed Projects, the project team took a recovery focused approach to the work:
🍃Over 1,000 tonnes of contaminated sand were treated and recovered
🍃98% of the material was diverted from landfill
🍃The recovered material can now be reused within the construction industry
🍃The work was completed ahead of schedule, allowing planned military training to continue
James Dean, Senior Project Manager, said, “Projects like this demonstrate that environmental responsibility and operational delivery can go hand in hand. By working closely with specialist partners and prioritising material recovery, we substantially reduce waste to landfill while completing the work ahead of schedule. It is a strong example of what collaboration, careful planning and sustainable thinking can achieve.”
The project also highlights the valuable contribution that social enterprises and specialist suppliers make across the Defence supply chain.
Thank you to P Cubed Projects and everyone involved in delivering the work safely, efficiently and sustainably.