VolkerFitzpatrick Completes Major Infrastructure Project in the Falkland Islands
VolkerFitzpatrick is proud to announce the successful completion and handover of a new modular accommodation block at Byron Heights in the Falkland Islands, concluding a four-year infrastructure improvement programme delivered on behalf of the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) and Strategic Command.
This milestone marks the final phase in a significant upgrade to facilities at some of the most remote and environmentally challenging locations within the UK Defence estate. Originally constructed in 1984, the accommodation at Mount Kent, Mount Alice, and Byron Heights has now been fully replaced with modern, high-performance modular buildings designed to withstand the harsh Falklands climate.
Working closely with DIO and Strategic Command, VolkerFitzpatrick was awarded the contract to deliver state-of-the-art single-storey accommodation blocks that now support operational personnel stationed at each site. Each block has been designed to accommodate up to 12 people and includes a comprehensive range of facilities to support a sustained presence in remote and isolated mountain conditions.
Modern Facilities for Remote Operations
Each accommodation complex comprises:
- Fully equipped private bedrooms
- Office and operational workspaces
- Modern catering and welfare areas
- Leisure facilities, including a small gym
- Plant and utility rooms
- Temporary transit accommodation to accommodate surge capacity
The buildings are designed for durability, comfort, and resilience—critical factors in the mountainous Falklands environment, where winter conditions can be extreme and access is often limited. The new structures also offer improved energy efficiency compared to the original 1980s-era facilities, reducing environmental impact while ensuring dependable performance year-round.
Delivering this project is one of the most remote and challenging environments on the Defence estate and has been a true testament to the resilience, commitment and expertise of our team based in the Falkland Islands. From navigating extreme weather to coordinating complex logistics across 8,000 miles, every stage demanded careful planning and collaboration. We’re proud to have provided safe, modern and energy-efficient accommodation that will make a real difference from those stationed here.
Stuart Deverill Managing Director, Building division
Nick Andrews-Gauvain, DIO Project Manager said "Building in the Falklands presents unique challenges, from harsh weather conditions to the complexity of an almost 8,000-mile logistic chain, meaning close teamwork between DIO and Volker-Fitzpatrick was vital. The team decided to complete the accommodation at Mount Kent first, allowing us to apply any lessons learnt to the more remote areas of Mount Alice and Byron Heights.
We are pleased to have completed this project and I have no doubts these new blocks will improve experiences for service and civilian personnel based there".
Sgt Winter is one of the personnel based at Mount Alice and has moved into the new accommodation. He said: “The dedicated office space and improved connectivity have made a real difference in how we work, greatly increasing efficiency. The new accommodation has also had a big impact. Being away from loved ones is never easy, but having a comfortable and welcoming place to stay has greatly boosted morale.
We’re also incredibly grateful to the VolkerFitzpatrick team. Not only did they deliver an excellent build, but they also seamlessly integrated themselves as part of the mountain family".
Collaborative Delivery in Extreme Conditions
Delivering construction works in the Falkland Islands required meticulous planning, logistical coordination, and adaptability. From managing long supply chains and remote workforce logistics to designing infrastructure capable of withstanding high winds, cold temperatures, and logistical isolation, the successful completion of this project reflects the dedication and expertise of the entire VolkerFitzpatrick team.
The completion of the accommodation at the Byron Heights site marks the final handover in the programme that enhances the UK’s capability to maintain a secure and sustained presence in the South Atlantic.
