Boddam Cadet Training Centre

Boddam Cadet Training Centre

Andrew Black Design led the multidisciplinary design and delivery of the redevelopment of Boddam Cadet Training Centre, adapting existing residential accommodation within the former RAF Buchan estate for contemporary cadet training use.

The original project transformed an existing residential block to provide seven offices, four classrooms, an IT suite and upgraded toilet facilities. Improvements included enhanced thermal performance, accessible facilities and the installation of a passenger lift. New external facilities comprised a drill square and a purpose-designed four-lane tube firing range.

The project subsequently expanded to include a replacement centre for the Peterhead Army Cadet Force (ACF) and Air Training Corps (ATC) units, enabling facilities to be shared rather than duplicated.

Flexible Delivery and Sustainability

When additional funding became available for the Peterhead cadet centre within a fixed financial-year deadline, we rapidly developed the additional facility and integrated it into the live construction contract. This enabled the project to respond to changing requirements while supporting a more efficient use of shared accommodation.

The sustainability strategy focused on retaining and improving the existing building fabric, reducing the need for unnecessary replacement. The completed development achieved an Excellent rating under the Ministry of Defence’s Defence Related Environmental Assessment Method (DREAM).

Architectural Services

Andrew Black Design provided architectural services across RIBA Work Stages 1–7, leading and coordinating the multidisciplinary team, including structural engineering, mechanical and electrical engineering, and quantity surveying.

Services encompassed brief development, design and technical coordination, statutory compliance, tender documentation and evaluation, construction-stage services and sustainability assessment.