Type Barracks In use 1879–1963 | Year built 1879 | |
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Pontefract Barracks is a former military installation in Pontefract, West Yorkshire, England.
History
The barracks were built in the Fortress Gothic Revival Style and were completed in 1879. Their creation took place as part of the Cardwell Reforms which encouraged the localisation of British military forces.
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). Under the Childers Reforms these regiments amalgamated to form the King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry with its depot at the barracks in 1881. The King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry remained at the barracks until 1938 when they moved to Strensall Camp.
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. Under the Childers Reforms these regiments amalgamated to form the York and Lancaster Regiment with its depot at the barracks in 1881. The barracks were demoted to the status of out-station to the Yorkshire Brigade depot at Queen Elizabeth II Barracks in 1958: they closed in 1963 and are now a business centre.