4 days ago
- Politics
- South Wales Argus
Urgent repairs for hundreds of military homes in Wales
Around 800 Service Family Accommodation (SFA) properties in Wales are expected to benefit from a share of £1.5 billion in additional UK Government funding announced as part of an upcoming Strategic Defence Review.
The investment is part of a wider £7 billion commitment to improve military housing across the UK during this parliamentary term.
Jo Stevens, secretary of state for Wales, said: "The Armed Forces make a valued and vital contribution to Wales and our security.
"I warmly welcome this action to address the urgent repairs and facilitate the development of new housing for service families across Wales.
"Our 800 forces family homes will benefit from a much-needed investment uplift, as part of an overall £7 billion in funding this parliament."
The funding will support urgent repairs such as fixing boilers, roofs, and tackling damp and mould, as well as the development of new housing for military families.
Ms Stevens also highlighted ongoing support for veterans, saying: "Through initiatives such as the Reducing Veterans Homelessness programme and the establishment of an Armed Forces Commissioner for Wales, we continue to ensure that those who have served receive the support and recognition they deserve.
"This is a UK Government delivering for veterans and their families."
Defence Secretary John Healey said: "Our Armed Forces personnel make extraordinary sacrifices to serve our country.
"For too long, many military families have lived in sub-standard homes, but this government is taking decisive action to fix the dire state of military accommodation and ensure that our heroes and their loved ones live in the homes they deserve."
The funding will cover both SFA and single living accommodation and forms part of a broader Defence Housing Strategy, which includes a new Consumer Charter to improve standards and introduce clearer housing rights for military families.
This includes improved property information, higher move-in standards, a named housing officer for every family, and access to a robust complaints system.
The Strategic Defence Review will outline long-term plans to improve defence capabilities and infrastructure, aiming to strengthen the UK's security and deliver lasting improvements for armed forces personnel.
