Major work has begun to improve Beacon Barracks in Stafford.

The scheme, which is being delivered for the Army under the Defence Estate Optimisation (DEO) Portfolio, will prepare the barracks for the relocation of the Royal Engineers Works Groups from Chetwynd Barracks in Chilwell, and 174 Provost Company and 262 Military Intelligence Section from Venning and Parsons Barracks in Telford, from 2029.

Upgrades include two new single living accommodation blocks, each with 116 bedspaces, new workspaces for the Royal Engineers, Intelligence Corps and Joint Military Command - Centre and a new Police Station for the Royal Military Police.

There will also be new storage facilities including a new armoury and several existing buildings will be refurbished to provide further offices, stores, garages, and training facilities.

New-build designs include air source heat pumps, photovoltaic systems, rainwater recovery systems, efficient ventilation with heat recovery systems, and efficient lighting systems.

Bovis (construction and project management) has been contracted to complete the work and will deliver a social value programme, including creating pathways into construction careers with the team facilitating apprenticeships and work placements.

A special ground-breaking ceremony was held to mark the start of the £206 million project which will support the Royal Engineers, Royal Military Police, Intelligence Corps and Joint Military Command - Centre, directly contributing to their ability to carry out their roles.

On 29 October, Belinda Lunn, DEO army programme director, and Major Davies, officer commanding Stafford support unit, ceremonially broke ground on the site of one of the new buildings.

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Belinda Lunn said: "The start of the main construction phase at Beacon Barracks is a significant milestone in delivering modern, fit-for-purpose facilities for our people.

"This investment will enhance the day-to-day experience of personnel, strengthen operational effectiveness, and help ensure the Defence estate is used as efficiently as possible."

Major Davies said: "This marks the start of the latest of a series of significant investments in Beacon Barracks over the last decade or so.

"We are looking forward to welcoming colleagues from the Royal Engineers, Royal Military Police, Intelligence Corps and Joint Military Command Centre and will work with our partners in DIO and Bovis to ensure the new and upgraded infrastructure being prepared for them meets their needs."

According to GOV.UK: "Once vacated, the Chetwynd Barracks, Venning Barracks and Parsons Barracks sites will be redeveloped.

"Nearly 1,300 new homes are planned at Chetwynd Barracks, the largest of the three sites."