Pontefract Barracks
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Pontefract Barracks is a former military installation in Pontefract, West Yorkshire, England.
| Pontefract Barracks | |
|---|---|
| Pontefract | |
Pontefract Barracks | |
| Site information | |
| Type | Barracks |
| Owner | Ministry of Defence |
| Operator |  British Army |
| Location | |
  Pontefract Barracks Location within West Yorkshire | |
| Coordinates | 53.68554°N 1.32647°W |
| Site history | |
| Built | 1879 |
| Built for | War Office |
| In use | 1879–1963 |
| Garrison information | |
| Occupants | King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry York and Lancaster Regiment |
History
The barracks were built in the Fortress Gothic Revival Style and were completed in 1879.[1] Their creation took place as part of the Cardwell Reforms which encouraged the localisation of British military forces.[2]
The barracks were intended as depot for the 51st (2nd Yorkshire West Riding) Regiment of Foot and the 105th Regiment of Foot (Madras Light Infantry).[3] Under the Childers Reforms these regiments amalgamated to form the King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry with its depot at the barracks in 1881.[3] The King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry remained at the barracks until 1938 when they moved to Strensall Camp.[4]
The barracks were also intended as depot for the 65th (2nd Yorkshire, North Riding) Regiment of Foot and the 84th (York and Lancaster) Regiment of Foot.[3] Under the Childers Reforms these regiments amalgamated to form the York and Lancaster Regiment with its depot at the barracks in 1881.[4] The barracks were demoted to the status of out-station to the Yorkshire Brigade depot at Queen Elizabeth Barracks in 1958 and closed in 1963.[5] The barracks were redeveloped by Asquith Properties and converted into serviced offices in 1997.[6][7]