The Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) has awarded a significant contract worth £142.1 million to GRAHAM Building for the extensive modernisation of three Army locations in Edinburgh.
This development, announced on 24 November 2025, will deliver new and refurbished facilities at Dreghorn Barracks, Glencorse Barracks, and the Colinton Road Reserve Centre, presenting substantial opportunities for the UK defence supply chain. The investment is a key component of the wider £5.1 billion Defence Estate Optimisation (DEO) Portfolio, a government initiative focused on providing more modern and sustainable infrastructure to meet the future operational requirements of the armed forces and enhance the living and working conditions for military personnel.
The programme of works managed by GRAHAM Building will involve a combination of new construction and the refurbishment of existing assets across the three sites. At Dreghorn Barracks, the scope includes the delivery of new Single Living Accommodation (SLA), state-of-the-art training facilities, an armoury, garages, and a dedicated band facility. Existing offices and stores at the barracks will also undergo comprehensive refurbishment. At Glencorse Barracks, the project will provide new SLA, modern offices, stores, and an armoury, alongside the construction of a new pony stable and paddock. The Colinton Road Reserve Centre will also see significant upgrades, including a new guard house, improved catering facilities, new garaging, and updated stores and offices.
This contract marks a major milestone in the DEO Army project, transitioning from planning to the delivery phase. While ongoing design and development work continues, construction is scheduled to commence in early 2027. The project provides a long-term pipeline of opportunities for subcontractors and suppliers specialising in construction, facilities management, engineering, and various associated trades. Businesses seeking to engage with this programme should note that GRAHAM Building will act as the prime contractor, managing the delivery and procurement for the modernisation works across all three Edinburgh garrisons. The investment is intended to deliver long-lasting benefits for the Army by providing fit-for-purpose facilities that directly support operational capability.
Image: Graham
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