St George’s Barracks

St George’s Barracks

  • Reds10 delivered a modern, three storey modular SLA block at St George’s Barracks.
  • This included 68 high quality ensuite bedrooms with shared kitchens, laundry and living areas.
  • The building integrates ASHPs, PV panels, rainwater harvesting and SMART BMS technology to significantly reduce operational energy use.
Location Bicester
68
ensuite bedrooms
51
modular units
3
storey modular SLA block

At St George’s Barracks, Reds10 replaced an ageing accommodation block with a modern, three storey modular Single Living Accommodation (SLA) building, delivered through a full Design & Build contract. The new facility provides 68 ensuite bedrooms, supported by communal kitchens, laundry spaces and shared living areas to enhance comfort and sociability.

Sustainable, intelligent and low carbon by design, the building incorporates rooftop photovoltaics, rainwater harvesting, air source heat pumps and a SMART Building Management System (BMS) that learns and adapts to user behaviour. Constructed from steel framed volumetric modules with concrete floors, the building is graded DREAM Excellent, reflecting its sector leading environmental performance.

Sustainable and SMART Features

To support long‑term operational efficiency and reduce carbon emissions on the Army estate, the building includes:

  • Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs) for low‑carbon heating
  • PV panels for renewable electricity generation
  • Rainwater harvesting system for reduced potable water use
  • SMART Battery Management Systems that increases efficiency using real‑time sensor data
  • High‑performance modular envelope for improved thermal performance

These systems ensure the building remains cost‑efficient to operate and aligns with the Ministry of Defence’s sustainability and Net Zero goals.

Design for Modern Army Living

The SLA provides a high standard of accommodation for service personnel, with:

  • Ensuite bedrooms for privacy and comfort
  • Modern communal kitchens
  • Dedicated laundry areas
  • Shared lounge and relaxation spaces

The layout encourages a balance of privacy and community, supporting resident wellbeing and quality of life.

Challenges and Solutions

Sensitive Environmental Constraints

The site was surrounded by residential blocks and mature trees with Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). Reds10 implemented enhanced environmental management plans, including:

  • Strict noise and dust controls
  • Carbon‑reduction measures
  • Careful protection of natural site features

Asbestos Discovery During Demolition

During demolition and subsequent trenchworks outside the immediate boundary, unforeseen asbestos was identified. Reds10 collaborated with specialists to:

  • Complete detailed asbestos removal plans
  • Ensure safe, compliant handling
  • Maintain programme momentum while protecting workers and the public

Working Adjacent to Live Internal and Public Roads

The location required constant management to protect both Army personnel and the public. Solutions included:

  • Full traffic management plans
  • Temporary diversions
  • Segregated access routes and banksman control
St George’s Barracks