£21m transformation promised for district as part of Levelling Up initiative
Ambitious plans to breathe new life into Catterick Garrison, in North Yorkshire, will reportedly be completed within two years.
North Yorkshire Council says the enhancements will provide a wealth of new facilities for the community.
The £21m project will see a new town centre created with a community and business skills hub, a town square and improved park facilities as part of the Government’s levelling up initiative to tackle regional inequalities.
The council says it will work with the Ministry of Defence (MOD) to bring the proposals to fruition by June 2025.
It has received £19m from the Levelling Up Fund, with the remaining match-funding coming from the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) and the council’s own resources.
The four-acre plot around Shute Road, which extends into the neighbouring Coronation Park, will be redeveloped to provide more community facilities, improve pedestrian access and pave the way for further improvements that will deliver extra retail and commercial premises.
Council leader, Cllr Carl Les, told members of the authority’s executive that agreements for partnership working on the scheme were already being drawn up, and site surveys had been complete.
He said: “This exciting project will transform the current tired centre of Catterick Garrison and greatly improve amenities for the local community. Work will begin early next year with completion by summer 2025.
“It will benefit everyone living and working in communities around the garrison, as well as the service personnel and their families who are stationed at Catterick and who play a vital role in the life of our county.”
Catterick Garrison is home to one of the largest Army bases in the country.
Major General Richard Clements, director of basing and infrastructure, said: “As home for many British Army units and the training centre for infantry soldiers, Catterick is an important garrison and this investment is very good news for our people.
“I am pleased that this transformative project is progressing at pace and we look forward to working with our local partners over coming years, to deliver improved facilities and services for military and civilian communities.”