**Plans Revealed for Expansion of Bridgend Army Reserve Centre**
A significant upgrade has been proposed for an army reserve centre in Bridgend, with fresh plans aiming to enhance facilities for local cadets and support ongoing training needs. The submission, lodged with Bridgend County Borough Council, reflects a continued investment in military infrastructure and youth engagement within the area.
The Reserve Forces and Cadets Association (RFCA) for Wales is behind the new application, which was officially submitted in July 2025. The focus of the proposed works is a section of the Litchard-based centre that is currently used by the Army Cadet Force. This space, often bustling with activity during weekday evenings, stands to benefit from a major transformation if the plans secure approval.
At the heart of the proposal is the intention to extend what is currently a modular cadet hut. Expansion would enable a larger hall area, as well as the addition of much-needed classrooms and offices. According to documents submitted with the application, these changes are necessary to meet the growing demands of the Army Cadet Force and to align the facility better with Joint Service Publication (JSP) standards where achievable.
Detailed architectural plans included in the application also outline a broader vision for the modernised facility. If granted the green light, the building will accommodate a dedicated new drill hall, upgraded toilet facilities, a kitchen, and a specialised room designed for media purposes and flight simulator training. The additional 114 square metres of floor space promised by the extension will play a key role in supporting these new features.
Officials from the RFCA noted that the existing building, in its current configuration, is no longer adequate for the scale and diversity of training now expected from a contemporary cadet centre. They argue that creating additional classrooms, storage facilities, and office areas will foster a more efficient and supportive environment for both cadets and their instructors.
Further practical improvements are also included in the plan, such as the installation of concrete steps and sturdy steel handrails on the southern side of the building to provide enhanced emergency exit access. The original fire escape will be decommissioned, making way for the modernised exit route. Importantly, the proposal states that there will be no alterations made to current pedestrian or vehicle routes into the site; provisions for disabled access will remain unchanged to ensure inclusivity.
The Army Reserve facility in Bridgend currently plays host to the 160 Divisional Support Company, the only unit of the Army Reserve Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) in Wales. The expansion, if approved, would underline the strategic value of the site both for regular armed forces activities and for engagement with local youth through the cadet programme.
Bridgend Council’s planning department will now consider the application, with a decision expected in due course. The proposal arrives at a time when there is growing community interest in opportunities for skill development and civic participation amongst young people in the borough.
In the context of broader national discussions around defence infrastructure and youth services, this move by the RFCA highlights efforts to bridge the gap between tradition and modern training needs. Should these plans proceed, the upgraded centre could serve as a blueprint for other facilities in Wales seeking to balance historical values with evolving community requirements.
As the planning process unfolds, residents and interested parties are encouraged to share their views, contributing to a transparent and inclusive dialogue about the future of this key local facility.