The deal awarded by the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) will create four new Junior Ranks SLA buildings with associated ancillary facilities and car parking. Each new building will contain 69 individual bedrooms over three floors to accommodate personnel at the RAF Digby base near Scopwick.
The buildings have been designed to be as carbon efficient as possible as part of the wider Government push towards net zero. As well as photovoltaic panels and air source heat pumps other energy efficiency measures include provision for a system to recover heat from the waste water in the showers, temperature-controlled heating zones, energy efficient LED lighting, and electric car charging points.
John Weatherby, DIO’s Principal Project Manager, said: “It’s fantastic to have reached this important milestone in our goal to transform the accommodation provision at RAF Digby with some high-quality new rooms for junior ranks serving at the station. We look forward to working with Galliford Try on the designs as we prepare for the start of construction in the coming months.”
Wing Commander Neil Hallett, Station Commander RAF Digby, said: “This is an eagerly anticipated announcement welcomed by the Service men and women stationed here. Having modern single living accommodation will significantly improve the lived experience and there is buzz of excitement across the station following this contract award.
“This investment into Royal Air Force Digby is a clear demonstration by the MOD of its intent to enhance the accommodation offer to our personnel while making buildings more sustainable.”
Bill Hocking, Chief Executive of Galliford Try, added: “We are delighted to be continuing our partnership with the DIO to deliver this much-needed accommodation for those serving at RAF Digby. We have a strong track record in providing this type of facility to the Armed Forces and look forward to ensuring the personnel receive the high-quality, modern living quarters they deserve.”