A NEW one-stop facility for catering, retail and leisure has been launched at a Hampshire military station.

The Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO), supported by Sodexo, officially opened the 'Village' at Worthy Down.

It is designed to build community, create connections and foster morale among the Royal Navy, Army, and Royal Air Force personnel who live there.

Group Captain Nicholas Brittain said: "This wonderful facility is a result of a true partnership between Sodexo and the Worthy Down Station.

"By working together, we can provide tremendous improvements to the quality of life for our military and civil service personnel. Sodexo personnel, at all levels, are key enablers of our defence output."

Hampshire Chronicle:

'Village’ will feature three key zones: a social and meeting lounge, a micro theatre and a gaming area.

Each zone is specifically designed to bring people together, encourage engagement, collaboration and boost camaraderie.

Paul Anstey, CEO, government and agencies, Sodexo UK and Ireland said: "We designed ‘Village’ based on insight from the DIO and research that we commissioned with IPOS Mori and Kings College London to provide us with in-depth insight into understanding the most pressing needs of today’s forces personnel, the wider defence community and the MOD.

"The integrated approach considers all aspects of military life and focuses on reducing isolation, low morale and boredom to improve recruitment, retention, wellbeing and the creation of a focused, agile workforce. It also brings a more positive quality of life for those living and working at the base.

"The military is a small, close knit community, so it was essential that ‘Village’ design reflected this concept."