The end is in sight for Howe Barracks

Howe Barracks in Canterbury is to be sold off and the 5 Scots battalion relocated to Scotland as part of a radical review of military bases.

The 500-acre site, which has been home to soldiers since the 19th century, is likely to be sold off for development.

Currently home to 5 Scots, the battalion is being shrunk from 530 soldiers to a single company of about 150.

It will have a largely ceremonial role and be based in Edinburgh from August.

A statement from the Ministry of Defence today said the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders would move to Scotland.

It added: "As a result, Howe Barracks in Canterbury is no longer required and will be disposed of in due course; plans will be made to relocate the smaller units at the site."

Much of the site is woodland and unlikely to be built on. There is already an existing estate of around 200 army homes.

The Argylls are set to be downsized and moved to Edinburgh

Last year city council leader John Gilbey said the authority would be very interested in the site.

He said: “I am sure there are things we could do with it. If we were asked to take control we would be willing to look into it and retain as much open space as possible.

“There are a significant number of houses on it already. Looking at what has happened elsewhere, I’m sure the government will be interested in getting the highest bid. I think it will go out for tender.”

Any disposal of the land or part of it will be handled by the Defence Infrastructure Organisation.

In a separate move, the headquarters of the 2nd (South East) Brigade, based in Folkestone, will merge with 145 (South) Brigade, based in Aldershot.

The site acts as a centre for administration for Kent's regiments.

There are currently around 100 civilian staff based at the Sir John Moore Barracks in Shorncliffe. The posts would either be moved to Hampshire or made redundant.

A new headquarters for the south east will be created, and based in Hampshire.

It's not yet known what would happen to the barracks site.