Resignation puts role as army hub in doubt

leuchars: Sir Michael Fallon’s departure prompts fears over future of station as Scotland’s main army base

The future of Leuchars as the British Army’s main base in Scotland has been thrown into doubt following the defence secretary’s resignation.

Sir Michael Fallon, who grew up in Perthshire and Fife, quit his front bench post last week after admitting his personal behaviour had “fallen short”.

Earlier this year, he told The Courier he wanted Leuchars to be the army’s Scottish hub.

The former St Andrews student’s knowledge of the area was seen as instrumental in Leuchars emerging as the first choice to be Scotland’s premier barracks.

It is feared Sir Michael’s successor will not have the same appreciation of the former RAF base.

Stephen Gethins, the North East Fife MP for the SNP, said: “It is vital that we continue to make the case for investment at Leuchars, as one of the best resources that the Ministry of Defence has.

“It is also important that any investment ensures that Leuchars is a family-friendly base that serves as an integral part of the community.”

Willie Rennie, the Scottish Liberal Democrat leader, said: “Regardless of who the defence secretary is, it is essential that significant investment comes to Leuchars and that it maintains its place at the centre of the military’s plans going forward.

“Leuchars has the potential to be the major focus for the army in the whole of Scotland, bringing the Black Watch 3 Scots home to its traditional recruiting grounds as well as offering a home for other Scottish battalions.”

Sir Michael indicated in February that Leuchars would become the army’s main base in Scotland, as he backed the prospect of the Black Watch returning to its traditional heartland.

While confirmation is still awaited, he told The Courier: “Leuchars is becoming the army’s key base in Scotland.

“Nobody wanted to see the RAF move out but these things change and the army are making a success of it.”

The RAF moved out of Leuchars in 2014 following a full defence review three years previously.

The army moved in in 2015, bringing the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards, Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers and the Royal Military Police to the town.

It was hoped that further expansion of the base would boost the local economy, which suffered when the airmen and women left.

It is vital that we continue to make the case for investment at Leuchars, as one of the best resources that the Ministry of Defence has. STEPHEN GETHINS MP

Picture: Mark Owens. Sir Michael Fallon, as defence secretary, is shown around Leuchars Station by the Commander of Stirling-based 51 Infantry Brigade, Brigadier Gary Deakin.