Exciting Transformation Underway at Bangor Joint Cadet Centre

Exciting progress is underway as the Bangor Joint Cadet Centre begins a comprehensive 16-week refurbishment programme, paving the way for a modern, fit-for-purpose facility that will benefit young people, volunteers, and the wider community for many years to come.

New facilities for Bangor Detachment

The centre which will be the home to Bangor Detachment Army Cadets and 1557 Squadron RAF Air Cadets is set to undergo a major transformation as part of a £1 million investment designed to enhance the cadet experience and provide outstanding facilities for future generations.

Funded through the Reserves Estates Optimisation Programme, the project forms part of a wider government initiative to improve the cadet and reserve estate across the United Kingdom. Bangor is one of ten new Welsh centres being developed, demonstrating a strong commitment to supporting youth development and investing in the leaders, team players, and community champions of tomorrow.

The extensive refurbishment works will include new roofing and window repairs, upgraded mechanical and electrical infrastructure, and a complete internal reconfiguration. Existing walls will be removed and replaced with new partitions to create more effective and flexible spaces. Cadets and volunteers will also benefit from brand-new kitchen and toilet facilities, full interior redecoration, and new floor coverings, fixtures, and fittings throughout the building.

These improvements will create a safer, more efficient, and welcoming environment, ensuring the centre continues to meet the needs of both current and future cadets and adult volunteers.

More than simply a building upgrade, this refurbishment represents a significant investment in people, communities, and the future of youth development in Wales. We look forward to seeing the transformation take shape and celebrating the completion of a facility that will serve cadets with pride for many years to come.

Contractor Krol Corlett is delivering the refurbishment.

Contracts Manager John Fowler highlighted the company’s strong connection to the armed forces, noting that many team members come from military families and are proud to support facilities that benefit cadets and the wider defence community. He also explained that careful planning has been required to manage the refurbishment and movement of materials on the restricted site, drawing on the company’s extensive experience working in complex environments such as NHS facilities and schools.

The project is being delivered by the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association for Wales.

RFCA Wales ongoing commitment to strengthening cadet infrastructure is helping young people across Wales develop confidence, resilience, leadership skills, and lifelong friendships.

Phil Young, RFCA for Wales Head of Estates, said: “We are adapting and improving our estate to ensure we have the right buildings in the right locations to meet the needs of cadets in the future.”

Bangor Joint Cadets Centre awaiting its refurbishment Image: Submitted by Krol Corlett courtesy North Wales Chronical