‘Disrespectful' MoD is selling historic bases

MILITARY chiefs have revealed that they intend to sell off more than 50 frontline bases, in a plan that will signal the end of hundreds of years of tradition.

- Tony Whitfield

Developers are set to make millions of pounds as the historic barracks and air bases are sold off to build new housing estates – with many of the listed properties expected to be converted into bespoke luxury flats.

Stonehouse Barracks, in Plymouth, Devon, has been the home of 3 Commando Brigade of the Royal Marines since 1756.

But it is one of 53 bases or properties that the top brass intend to include in their “sale of the century”.

A senior source said selling off the spiritual home of the Royal Marines “shows the lack of respect this country has for our military”.

Parts of Stonehouse Barracks were built by Napoleonic prisoners and the officers’ mess is regarded as unique across the military, as it is packed with fine art and decorated with gold leaf.