Philip Hammond announces seven army barracks set to close in Defence restructuring
PHILIP Hammond has announced that seven army barracks across the UK are set to close down in an effort to accelerate the return of troops from Germany.
The Defence Secretary revealed today that the restructuring will led to £240 million savings per year as soldiers are moved to key locations.
Around 11,000 British troops are set to return from Germany by 2016 and almost £2 billion will be invested in army housing and bases.
Addressing the House of Commons, Mr Hammond said: "By setting out our plans to bring troops back to the UK we are not only providing our service personnel and their families with greater stability for their future, but also generating a saving of around £240m a year in operational running costs.
"We are going to invest an additional £1.8bn in our new basing plan, providing investment around the country, crucial jobs for local economies and the best possible accommodation for our soldiers and their families."
The barracks that will be shut down are based on North Yorkshire, Canterbury, Pembrokeshire, Stirling, Shrewsbury and two in Edinburgh.
Refurbishment of bases and infrastructure will be boosted by £800m.
While £1bn will be invested in 1,900 new houses for service families and accommodation for 7,800 single soldiers.