Coronavirus Update – 22nd May 2020 – Re-opening of Ranges – Firearms Licensing

Published on:
May 22, 2020

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Re-opening of Ranges – Firearms Licensing

We recently welcomed the updated Government guidance that allowed the re-opening of outdoor sports facilities, and confirmed that Bisley ranges are re-opening on Saturday 23^rd May 2020.

This prompted some uncertainty, and to address specific concerns expressed by Certificate holders we can confirm that:-

1. The National Police Chiefs Council has issued guidance to police firearms licensing teams stating “any facilities associated with outdoor sports and physical activities, including shooting ranges, can now reopen, if those responsible for them feel ready to do so and if they can do so safely, and in line with related public health guidance. [This] advice extends to outdoor pest control and deer management”.

Firearm and shotgun certificate holders can be re-assured that target shooting on ranges is an activity that, practiced safely and in accordance with public health guidance, will not be challenged by police licensing teams.

And

2. Nigel Huddleston MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Sport, Tourism and Heritage, in a letter this week to Jonathan Djanogly MP, Chairman of the British Shooting Sports Council, confirmed “Any facilities associated with outdoor sports and physical activities, including shooting ranges, can now reopen, if those responsible for them feel ready to do so and if they can do so safely, and in line with related public health guidance”.

Whilst it was apparent that outdoor ranges would qualify as outdoor sports facilities, it is pleasing to receive this specific confirmation.

I should record my grateful thanks to Jonathan Djanogly MP for his continued support.

Andrew Mercer

Secretary General, National Rifle Association

Chief Executive, National Shooting Centre