A SUPER-GARAGE which stores vehicles in a humidity-controlled environment has been built in North Devon.

The new storage depot is for military vehicles and will mean they can be sent quickly and efficiently to frontline hotspots like Afghanistan.

It has been built for the Commando Logistic Regiment at RMB Chivenor, near Braunton.

The new building is an extension to an existing facility and greatly enhances the active life of military vehicles.

It minimises environmental damage to vehicles by removing moisture from the atmosphere and allows them to be maintained in a condition for immediate deployment.

The work was carried out by Defence Estates, working with Debut Services.

Chris Roberts, from the Royal Navy Estate Organisation, said: "I am extremely pleased with the outcome of this project, particularly, the high quality of workmanship and the positive approach of the entire project team.

"Lessons learned from an earlier facility were quickly gathered, analysed and resolved leading to a much improved and far more efficient final design.

"The facility itself has the potential to quickly pay for its own construction and running costs by delivering improved availability and reliability of our valuable hi-tech vehicle fleet.

"It will also significantly extend vehicle life and reduce servicing costs."

The depot was opened by Major-General Garry Robison from the Royal Marines.

Emily Simmons, Defence Estate's project manager, said: "I'm very proud to have handed over an important facility which supports 3 Commando Brigade's fleet of military vehicles. The project team has worked together to deliver a fit-for-purpose facility on time and within budget."