British Army Vehicle Storage Facility Opens in Ashchurch
The UK Ministry of Defence has inaugurated a state-of-the-art vehicle storage and support facility at Ashchurch Camp in England. Spanning an impressive 25,300 square meters, or 272,326 square feet, this new center is equipped with advanced and sustainable solutions designed to accommodate over 900 military vehicles. A standout feature of this hub is its Controlled Humidity Environment technology, which is specifically designed to shield vehicles from severe temperature fluctuations. This innovation not only helps in reducing maintenance costs but also prolongs the lifespan of the military equipment.
The construction of this facility was a collaborative effort involving Watford-based engineering firm Skanska and construction company Mace Group, based in Moorgate. Terry Muckian, Executive Vice President of Skanska, highlighted the importance of meticulous design and construction practices. He emphasized that the completed vehicle storage building exceeds the necessary specifications for airtightness, leading to increased durability and operational efficiency. Graham Seage, Director of Mace Defence and National Security, praised the exceptional collaboration among all partners that made this milestone possible, drawing from a wealth of experience across the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) portfolio to implement innovative solutions.
Significance of the New Facility
This newly opened installation serves as the principal storage and distribution center for the UK armed forces. In 2022, the Defence Infrastructure Organisation unveiled an infrastructure program aimed at upgrading the Ashchurch site in alignment with the military’s evolving vehicle storage and maintenance strategies. As part of this initiative, the facility is now the only tactical vehicle storehouse in the UK equipped with the cutting-edge Controlled Humidity Environment capability.
The implications of this advancement are significant for the British Army. By providing enhanced protection against environmental factors, the facility not only ensures that military vehicles remain in optimal condition but also supports operational readiness. As the military increasingly relies on innovative technologies to maintain its equipment, the Ashchurch facility stands as a testament to the commitment of the UK Ministry of Defence to integrate modern solutions into its infrastructure.
