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£142M Defence Estate Modernisation Boosts Edinburgh Army Sites

Army Benefits From Contract to Modernise Defence Estate in Edinburgh

A group of 16 men and women, including military personnel in camouflage uniforms and berets alongside civilians in business suits, pose formally on stone steps in front of a large white stone building with blue windows, flagpoles, and outdoor lamps in Edinburgh.
Officials from the Defence Infrastructure Organisation and GRAHAM Building gather at Dreghorn Barracks in Edinburgh to announce a £142.1 million contract for modernising army facilities.

Army personnel will receive upgraded facilities at Dreghorn Barracks, Glencorse Barracks and Colinton Road Reserve Centre as part of a new infrastructure investment initiative in Edinburgh.

The improvements follow the announcement of a contract that will advance living, working and training environments at three locations on the Defence estate in Scotland. The Defence Infrastructure Organisation has appointed GRAHAM Building to deliver a £142.1 million programme of works across the sites.

The project forms part of the Defence Estate Optimisation Portfolio, a £5.1 billion programme aimed at providing modern and sustainable infrastructure that aligns with future operational needs while supporting the daily experience of military personnel.

Under the DEO Army project, GRAHAM Building will develop a mix of new buildings and refurbished facilities at each location. Belinda Lunn, DEO Army Programme Director, said the investment will offer long-term benefits by delivering modern, fit-for-purpose infrastructure that strengthens operational capability and enhances living, working and training environments.

Work at Dreghorn, Glencorse and Colinton Road

At Dreghorn Barracks, plans include new Single Living Accommodation, training facilities, an armoury, garages and a new band facility, along with refurbished offices and stores.

Glencorse Barracks is set to receive new Single Living Accommodation, offices, stores and an armoury, as well as a pony stable and paddock. At Colinton Road Reserve Centre, investment will provide a new guard house alongside catering facilities, garaging, stores and offices.

Warren Webster, DIO MPP Programme Director – Army, said the contract marks the beginning of a significant phase of investment and improvement for Army sites in Edinburgh, noting that the completed projects will enhance daily conditions for personnel based there.

Chris MacLeod, Regional Director at GRAHAM Building, said the organisation values its partnership with the Defence Infrastructure Organisation and anticipates the redevelopment of the Edinburgh Garrison. He noted that the project, announced during the month of Remembrance, recognises the dedication and service of armed forces personnel while supporting future resilience.

Construction is expected to begin in early 2027 following continued design and development work.

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