If you stand on Balmoral and Penrhyn, as I did this week, you’ll hear two things: the sound of cars speeding past far too fast, and the voices of residents demanding safety and action.

But there’s another sound I’m thinking about today: the echo of parade boots, marching drills, and the unmistakable pride of the soldiers who’ve trained, and continue to train, just a couple of miles away at the Prince William of Gloucester Barracks.

That base isn’t just a military asset. It’s a living connection between Grantham and our national story. A place where local families have served, local businesses have supported, and our community has stood shoulder to shoulder with the British Army for generations.

🏅 A Training Base of National Significance

As Gareth Davies MP rightly points out in his article this week, over 70% of Army reservists pass through Grantham during their military careers. With enhanced facilities, strategic transport links, and newly invested infrastructure, the Barracks continues to play a critical role in Britain’s defence posture.

This isn’t an outdated relic of the past. This is a modern, well-positioned, high-throughput training centre for the Army of today and tomorrow. To even consider closing it by 2028, amid rising global instability, is beyond short-sighted.

🌍 The World Has Changed — And So Must Our Priorities

It’s no longer theoretical. Russia’s brutal war on Ukraine, rising threats in the Middle East, and provocations in the Indo-Pacific region all paint a clear picture: Britain must remain ready. And readiness begins with training, something Grantham has delivered, with distinction.

That’s why I wholeheartedly back Gareth Davies’ campaign to save Prince William of Gloucester Barracks, because closing it now would send the wrong signal to our allies, our Armed Forces, and frankly, to our enemies.

🛡️ Grantham: A Town That Serves

Here in Grantham, we don’t stand on the sidelines. Whether it’s young reservists beginning their journey, families volunteering for Community Speed Watch, or residents helping police crack down on dangerous driving, this town steps up.

We believe in service. We believe in safety. And we believe in the role our town plays in something bigger than ourselves.

So I say this, to Government Ministers, MOD decision-makers, and anyone watching from Westminster:

Please don’t shut down our barracks. Build them up.

Please support those who serve, and the communities who stand behind them.

📣 Join the Campaign

Write to your MP. Share this message. Make it clear that Grantham is not prepared to lose this vital asset without a fight.

Because just as we’re fighting to make our streets safer from speeding and danger, we’re fighting for our future role in defending this country.

Let’s save our barracks. Let’s do it together.