October 17, 2025
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Construction of prefabricated units for the new Joint Cadet Centre (JCC) in Alness is well under way.
The project is part of the nationwide Reserve Estate Optimisation Programme (REOP) and will be completed by Integra Buildings. The works will see the redevelopment of the RAF Air Cadets site currently used by 379 (County of Ross) Squadron.
The units are nearing completion.
The building footprint will be enlarged with a new extension of prefabricated modules that will allow it to be used jointly by the Air Cadets and Alness Detachment of 1st Battalion The Highlanders Army Cadet Force (ACF). A new store will also be built.
Consolidating the two cadet units on one site will allow for the disposal of the standalone ACF building and return of the lease.
The interior of one of the units.
Work is progressing well.
Groundworks started on 11 September. Once complete, the prefabricated units will be craned over the boundary fence and laid down on the new foundations, creating a new space that will be in use for the next 20 years.
The services will be connected and commissioned and groundworks tidied up. The total cost is around £440,000.
◼︎REOP is a strategic initiative focused on modernising and optimising the infrastructure for the Army’s Reserve and Cadet Forces by ensuring it aligns with Defence Reviews and broader strategic changes. The program involves developing regionally focused plans, identifying opportunities to rationalise the estate, and managing projects through the Defence Infrastructure Organisation and regional Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Associations to enhance the effectiveness of Defence outputs.
