The Defence Secretary has made a commitment to address the issue of substandard military housing, following the completion of upgrades to 1,000 properties ahead of schedule. John Healey has directed an additional 250 military residences to receive priority renovations in the next few months, marking a 25% increase from the initial target set eight months ago. The housing improvement initiative has already enhanced nearly 700 properties in England, over 150 in Northern Ireland, more than 100 in Wales, and in excess of 50 in Scotland.
During an exclusive interview with The Mirror at a Colchester barracks, Mr. Healey emphasized the positive impact the progress has had on morale and retention, aiming to eradicate the longstanding issue of inadequate military housing. He described the deplorable conditions faced by service personnel and their families, highlighting issues like cold, damp environments, leaky roofs, and mold in children’s rooms. Mr. Healey emphasized the government’s commitment to investing £9 billion over the next decade to upgrade or rebuild the majority of Forces family homes, with 36,000 military family homes already back under public ownership.
The achievement of refurbishing 1,000 homes ahead of schedule means more families will now have comfortable living spaces, fittingly termed “homes fit for Heroes.” The upgraded properties feature new flooring, improved heating systems, repaired roofs, and renovated bathrooms, kitchens, windows, and doors. Mr. Healey stressed that these enhancements not only boost morale but also contribute to retaining personnel in the armed forces.
Cpl Jack Crean, along with his partner Nina and their one-year-old son Charlie, recently relocated to one of the newly renovated homes at Bassingbourn Barracks in Cambridgeshire. Cpl Crean expressed his satisfaction with their new residence and the positive impact it has had on their family, especially during the festive season. He mentioned the improved functionality and modern amenities of the house, providing reassurance that his family is now living in a clean and updated environment.
