THE country's first "super garrison" is expected to be created in the region.

An estimated £1bn could be invested in Catterick Garrison, North Yorkshire, over the next 20 years, the Army confirmed yesterday.

That figure, which is subject to funding approvals, could increase, depending on private sector contributions.

The expansion, revealed by The Northern Echo, will create scope to add up to five major fighting units, of about 600 soldiers each, making 15 units in total.

Four could be based at Catterick itself and the other at one of the garrison's adjoining sites - Marne Barracks, Dishforth, Topcliffe and Ripon, which are also being redeveloped and expanded.

Along with new barracks, up to 2,500 homes will be built, while Catterick town centre will benefit from new shops, restaurants, a bus station and sports centre.

Much of the expansion, in which Army staff will move from other parts of the country, is expected to take place on land to the west of Plumer Road, in Catterick, where the major concentration of barracks accommodation is already located.

Colonel Nick Millen, the garrison commander, described the £1bn investment from the Military of Defence (MoD) as a statement of intent and said it would uplift the local economy.

He said: "I am in no doubt that this part of the North-East will be significantly enhanced, while the operational capability of the armed forces based here will be increased."

Col Millen also indicated that nearby RAF Leeming, which is not part of the Catterick plans, would remain open in some form.

The MoD said last week that a decision not to deploy new front-line Joint Combat Aircraft at Leeming meant the RAF had no long-term use for the base, which employs 1,700 military and civilian staff.

It is thought the Army could seek to take over the site and use it as an additional training facility.

Col Millen said: "We can definitely say the defence pound is going to stay at that site."