A major refurbishment project has been completed at the Cadet Centre in March, Cambridgeshire, providing a modern, welcoming space for the use of both Army Cadets and RAF Air Cadets.
The Centre is shared by the 1220 (March) Squadron Air Training Corps (ATC), RAF Air Cadets (RAFAC) and the March Detachment of Cambridgeshire Army Cadet Force (ACF).
The project involved the demolition of an outdated timber ‘Spooner’ hut that was previously being used by the Air Cadets. A new mezzanine first floor has been added to the main brick building, which has provided space for both cadet units to be housed there.
The brick building has been completely reconfigured internally, with new offices, storage space, classrooms and kitchen facilities. The building also benefits from new energy efficient lighting and insulation.
Removing the old timber hut has freed up outdoor space for a new parade ground, which is already being utilised by both units.
WO2 Tracey Ranger, Detachment Commander, March (ACF) said:
“The new building is brilliant. Before, we had to do drill in the road and it wasn’t safe, now we have a safe area to do it. It’s more professional and more military now that we have proper facilities. Now we have a safe, modern and professional space to train.”
Cdt LCpl Brianna Crofts, March Detachment (ACF) said:
‘Its definitely improved a lot! Its larger, more modern, and the classrooms enable us to split into small groups to do different activities, and helps us do a greater variety of training. The new building is so much better that it helps us feel more like a family.”
Wd Cdr Rob Bradshaw, RAFAC Officer Commanding Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing, ATC said:
“The refurbishment of the two cadet buildings in March into a single Joint Cadet Centre is exciting news for the future development of the ATC and ACF, and the youth community of March.
“Over the years, both buildings have provided a focal point for thousands of Air and Army cadets, but this development moves the training opportunities to another level in a single building. Whilst the building gives space where both units can operate, such as the internal drill and parade area, individual units have rooms set aside to allow for specific training, allowing the ATC to develop flying skills for all cadets on flight simulators.”
The project was delivered by East Anglia RFCA, and funded by the Ministry of Defence’s Reserve Estate Optimisation programme.
One of East Anglia RFCA’s key roles is to champion, support and enable the thousands of cadets within our region, ensuring they have access to the very best training, facilities and staff. Our Estates team manages, maintains and improves sites used by cadets across the region, providing the facilities they need to support their development.
