Work begins on RAF Digby accommodation blocks

Above: The project team celebrate the official start of construction works at RAF Digby.
Credit: MoD Crown Copyright

A ground-breaking ceremony was held on 26th March 2025, after the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) awarded a £65 million contract to Galliford Try earlier this year. Arcadis will join the project as a Technical Support Provider. The contractors will use local suppliers and labour where possible.

The project, delivered on behalf of Strategic Command, will see the construction of 276 single occupancy en-suite bedrooms for junior ranks, spread across four blocks. Each block will also contain a kitchenette, laundry rooms, drying rooms and social spaces.  

The buildings have been designed with sustainability at the forefront, as part of an MoD and wider government initiative to meet net zero targets by 2050. Solar panels and air source heat pumps will be installed onto the buildings, as well as temperature-controlled heating zones, energy efficient LED lighting, electric vehicle charging points and a system to recover heat from wastewater in the showers.  

Operated by Strategic Command, RAF Digby is the RAF’s oldest station, established in 1918.

Shaun Purdy, Project Manager for DIO Major Programmes and Projects, said: “I am excited for construction to officially start on this important project to enhance the experience for our dedicated service personnel based at RAF Digby.

“This new accommodation not only represents a significant step in modernising military accommodation but also in our commitment to sustainability. With features such as solar panels and air source heat pumps built into the design, we are delivering accommodation that will reduce our environmental impact for years to come.”

Wing Commander Neil Hallett, Station Commander RAF Digby, said: "It is incredibly exciting for Strategic Command to now see this project underway and watch the site transform to deliver modern accommodation that will directly benefit the service personnel based at RAF Digby.”  

Jon Marston, Managing Director for Galliford Try Building East Midlands, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with the DIO in delivering this important project. Our business has a strong track record in providing high-quality accommodation for our service personnel and we look forward to working with all the stakeholders involved to create a fantastic new facility for RAF Digby.”

The contract also includes provision of car parking, street lighting and landscaped outdoor communal areas.