The Royal Navy’s transformation programme at HM Naval Base Clyde is being shaped around its personnel, technology, and infrastructure, according to the Royal Navy.
The First Sea Lord’s 100-day review highlights progress on a £166 million investment in new Single Living Accommodation blocks at the base, which serves as the home of the UK’s Submarine Service.
Four new buildings are currently under construction and will eventually house up to 630 submariners. The first two are scheduled to open in 2026 for students completing the Submarine Qualifying Course.
“This £166 million investment underscores our commitment to improving the quality of life for our submariners,” said the First Sea Lord in the update. “These modern, comfortable, and practical living spaces will soon support our people as they train and serve. They are a clear example of how we are putting people first in shaping the future Royal Navy.”
The accommodation project is being delivered through the Clyde Infrastructure Programme by the Defence Infrastructure Organisation and Kier Graham Defence. It forms part of the broader Clyde Capital Programmes, a long-term initiative designed to ensure the base remains safe and capable while supporting the Continuous At-Sea Deterrent and the introduction of Dreadnought and Astute-class submarines, according to the Ministry of Defence.
Redevelopment under the Clyde masterplan began earlier this year and includes infrastructure upgrades such as waterfront works, digital integration, and new training facilities.
The goal is to establish a digitally enabled, resilient, and sustainable naval hub supporting future submarine classes, including those linked to the AUKUS partnership.
The First Sea Lord said the ongoing transformation “is about more than platforms or facilities—it’s about people.” He added that investment in modern infrastructure is intended to improve how personnel “live, work, and operate,” contributing to a Navy that is “more agile, more capable, and leading the delivery of the deterrent for Defence and NATO.”
The local community was told by the MOD that when the submarine fleet was transferred to Faslane there would be no more accommodation built as the families would be living in the community.
The Estate management previously said that 85% of the naval staff used the accommodation Monday to Thursday then went to their homes elsewhere.
The fact is that the base provides very little economic return to the community when the dong live in the area. Despite assurances otherwise history is repeating itself.
That ‘s over £263k per ensuite room. Ridiculous.
Its likely that figure is a ‘whole life’ cost, so includes maintenance etc over decades.
Shame the MOD won’t develop or sell Shandon House.
I meant renovate.
Given it’s current state, the last time I visited, most of the roofs had caved in, the best hope for the site is that MoD decides to make use of it and throws some of that defence money at it. No private developer is going to spend the money to get it back to up scratch. It’s such a shame it’s been allowed to fall into such a state of repair.
Yes, very sad. And somewhat very disrespectful to the local heritage.