Construction has officially started on new accommodation and training facilities at Marne Barracks in Catterick ahead of the relocation of the Royal Engineers from Ripon.
A ground-breaking ceremony has marked the start of work on the project, which will prepare the barracks for the arrival of 21 Engineer Regiment from Claro Barracks in Ripon in 2027.
The development, being delivered under the Ministry of Defence’s Defence Estate Optimisation programme, includes 205 new and refurbished single living accommodation bedspaces for junior ranks and officers.
Plans also include a new workshop for the regiment’s Light Aid Detachment, responsible for repairing and maintaining military equipment, alongside new garages, sports facilities, storage buildings and the refurbishment of five existing buildings.
The project is being delivered by the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO), with Morgan Sindall appointed as the principal contractor. Work is expected to be completed by the end of 2027.
Belinda Lunn, Defence Estate Optimisation Army Programme Director, said: “I am delighted that the Marne Barracks project has reached this significant milestone with construction activity starting on site. This project demonstrates how investment in modern, high-quality infrastructure is supporting military capability, delivering benefits for Army personnel and improving the Defence estate.”
Warren Webster, the DIO’s Head of Major Programmes and Projects – Army, added: “This is a major project, and one of the first moving into construction under the Defence Estate Optimisation Strategic Alliance. It’s therefore great to see work getting underway to provide fantastic new accommodation, sports facilities and more for the British Army, ready for 21 Engineer Regiment’s arrival in 2027.”
Morgan Sindall said the project would also benefit the local community by creating opportunities for people to enter the construction industry.
Managing director Simon Arnott said: “Morgan Sindall has always been steadfast in its support for the armed forces, those currently serving and those who have served to protect our country. As an Armed Forces Covenant signatory, we are proud to use our expertise to deliver facilities that meet the highest standards for 21 Engineer Regiment.”
As part of its social value commitments, the company will create four work starter opportunities, provide 20 apprenticeship and T-Level placements, deliver 40 work placement days and work with local schools to promote careers in construction.
The relocation forms part of wider changes to the Defence estate. Once the regiment leaves Ripon, the city’s barracks site – comprising Claro Barracks, Deverell Barracks and Laver Banks – will be redeveloped for housing.
Under plans announced earlier this year by Homes England and the Ministry of Defence, around 1,300 new homes will be built across the site in phases. Development will begin at the already vacant Deverell Barracks, with the remaining areas to follow after 21 Engineer Regiment relocates to Catterick.
