September 18, 2025
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Work to create a new Joint Cadet Centre (JCC) in Alness is 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 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.
Freshly dug foundations at the site.
Consolidating the two cadet units on one site will allow for the disposal of the standalone ACF building and return of the lease.
Groundworks started on 11 September, with delivery of the prefabricated units scheduled for 30 September. These 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 with handover due at the end of October, just before the Highland winter rolls in.
The cost of the total package is around £440,000.
Material that was removed during groundworks.
◼︎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.
