The six-year alliance aims to build 16,000 new bed spaces. Credit: Marcus Loke via Unsplash.

The UK’s Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) has announced the selection of six companies to construct single living accommodation (SLA) for the country’s armed forces. 

The alliance, which will operate for six years, will build 16,000 new bed spaces. 

This initiative forms part of a wider UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) plan to develop or refurbish 40,000 SLA bed spaces over the next ten years.  

Bowmer and Kirkland, ESS Modular, Kier McAvoy, Kier Metek, Laing O’Rourke, and REDS10 will receive contracts through the existing Crown Commercial Services framework.  

The tenders submitted by these companies were assessed on various criteria by the DIO and its technical support provider, Arcadis.  

The new programmatic approach adopted by the DIO for SLA is designed to find efficiencies and improve value for money in delivering new accommodations. 

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A library of SLA designs has been established, featuring a common base design that can be altered to suit the specific needs of a site such as the required number of rooms.  

These designs cater to both short-term occupancies such as recruits in initial training and permanent accommodation on military bases.  

The focus on modern methods of construction is part of the SLA programmatic approach, with new blocks being built off-site in sections.  

This method is expected to expedite the manufacturing process, reduce on-site time, and minimise disruption.  

Moreover, the designs have been conceived with sustainability as a priority, aligning with the government’s net-zero strategy. 

Over the next two years, a hybrid approach will be implemented, with the new approach applied to all projects starting in 2026. 

DIO Major Programmes and Projects director Charlie Hoskins said: “I am convinced this new alliance using a programmatic approach will be crucial to improve our broader delivery of single living accommodation.

“These blocks are one of the armed forces facilities we build the most, and this approach will ensure we can safely build blocks faster, to a common design, ensuring consistency of standards and driving better value for money. 

“Ultimately, this is about improving the living conditions for our armed forces personnel, and every one of our suppliers is motivated by this aim.”