Today, the Defence Minister confirmed that 3 Commando Brigade, the Royal Marines currently based in Stonehouse Barracks, will remain in the Plymouth area.
Stonehouse Barracks have been earmarked for closure, and 3 Commando moved into barracks more suitable for life in the 21st century, since 2016 as part of the 25 year plan to optimise the defence estate across the country.
In 2016, there was speculation that as a result of the planned closure of other Royal Marine barracks across the UK, Plymouth could become a super-base for the Marines. However, this was never promised and depended on a large number of other factors including which other barracks were closed around the country.
In today's update to the Defence Estate Optimisation Programme, it was announced that the closure of Stonehouse Barracks would be later than originally anticipated - likely in 2027 rather than 2023 - this is 'following detailed work to assess the optimum laydown required to support operational capability.'
Importantly, in the House of Commons today, the Defence Minister, Tobias Ellwood MP, assured Plymouth that 3 Commando would remain in the area when Stonehouse Barracks closed - this is considerable certainty for the city and its historic link with the Royal Marines.
The Plymouth area will remain the home of both 42 Commando and 3 Commando.
It's also worth remembering that we also have the commitment that the new Type 26 frigates will be base-ported in our Naval Base at Devonport.
The Government remains committed to Plymouth having a significant military presence - something we are all proud of - for years to come.
