The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced a £279 million investment to redevelop Duke of Gloucester Barracks in Gloucestershire, establishing a dedicated facility for the British Army’s 13 Signal Regiment.
This contract, awarded to British firm Bovis by the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO), focuses on delivering specialist technical and training infrastructure alongside modernised living quarters. The project is a central component of the Defence Estate Optimisation (DEO) Portfolio, aimed at enhancing the UK’s defensive cyber capabilities in response to increasing external threats.
The redevelopment is strategically significant, as it will house the Army’s Cyber, Information and Security Operations Centre (CiSOC). This facility is tasked with protecting military networks from cyber-attacks, of which there have been over 90,000 recorded against UK military infrastructure in the past two years. According to the Strategic Defence Review (SDR), the cyber and electromagnetic domains are now fundamental to modern warfare. Consequently, the MoD is establishing a new Cyber and Electromagnetic Command to ensure the UK remains at the forefront of these operations. For businesses specializing in digital security, secure construction, and high-tech infrastructure, this project signals a long-term commitment to hardening domestic military assets.
The contract includes the construction of 248 Single Living Accommodation (SLA) bedspaces and 30 new Service Family Accommodation (SFA) homes, in addition to the refurbishment of existing on-site military housing. Construction is scheduled to commence in Summer 2027, with a projected completion date in Spring 2030. This timeline provides a clear window for sub-contractors and suppliers to align their offerings with the project’s requirements.
For the UK defence supply chain, the contract terms include specific social value and regional economic targets. The MoD has stipulated that 25% of the project spend must be directed toward small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with a further 25% of total expenditure staying within 50 miles of the site. Additionally, 40% of offsite manufacturing is to be conducted within a 40-mile radius, and 25% of the on-site workforce must be recruited locally. The project is expected to create 92 jobs, including 32 apprenticeships and roles for ex-military personnel. These figures represent actionable opportunities for regional sub-contractors and manufacturing firms to integrate into a high-value government project. By prioritising local and SME involvement, the MoD aims to use this investment as an engine for regional growth while simultaneously modernising the infrastructure necessary for 21st-century warfare.
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Post written by: Vicky Maggiani
Vicky has worked in media for over 25 years and has a wealth of experience in editing and creating copy for a variety of sectors.
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