Known as Victory Galley, the modern and environmentally friendly restaurant uses building materials low in carbon emissions, energy efficient heating and a specialist waste system that creates bio-fuel.
Deputy Director David Rice of the Fleet Royal Naval Estates Organisation explains:
"In line with MOD and Government policy the environmental impact of the building has been at the forefront of its design and construction and it merits an 'excellent' standard at building assessment. All building and insulation materials selected are low in carbon emissions from manufacture, throughout the life of the dining hall, and ultimately to disposal.
"Under floor heating and a seamless roof installation ensures that the dining hall is energy efficient. The ventilation system makes use of natural sources linked to the building's systems to automatically ensure a comfortable ambient temperature."
David Sumecki, of prime contractor Flagship Training Limited, said:
"Victory Building is leading the way in modern catering design and construction. The central kitchen has been fitted with 'state of the art' catering equipment and several innovative systems. This includes a specialist waste handling system, the first to be installed in any MOD catering facility, which separates the food waste, grease and water to enable the resultant slurry to be composted or used in the production of bio-fuel."
The 2,500 square metre building consists of two separate dining areas; one for the Royal Navy's new recruits and the other for trainees on specialist courses, naval personnel employed at the base and civilian staff.
"In line with MOD and Government policy the environmental impact of the building has been at the forefront of its design and construction and it merits an 'excellent' standard at building assessment."
David Rice, Deputy Director of the Fleet Royal Naval Estates Organisation
Construction has taken just over a year and has been overseen by Flagship Training Limited, managed on behalf of the Ministry of Defence by the Fleet Royal Naval Estates Organisation. Building works have been carried out by Mansell Construction Services Ltd. Sodexho Catering and Support Services will provide chefs and staff to operate the new dining hall.
The opening of the new complex also heralds the introduction of the more modern 'Pay As You Dine' concept to HMS Raleigh aimed at giving sailors more choice and better value. Under the initiative sailors who choose to eat within the establishment can pick from a varied menu and are charged according to their choice, rather than having a standard monthly food charge deducted from their salary.
Given the rigours of initial training and the need to ensure a balanced diet and calorie intake, arrangements for the Royal Navy's newest recruits will continue to ensure that their diet is appropriate and supports their training needs. They will continue to receive three meals per day, with a choice of options, and an additional fourth meal supplement.
Captain Jonathan Woodcock, Commanding Officer of HMS Raleigh, said:
"This is a major investment in HMS Raleigh. It is the first purpose built 'Pay As You Dine' facility to be opened in a Naval training establishment. As well as giving those living within Raleigh the opportunity to make their own lifestyle choices of when and what to eat, the extended opening hours will provide staff and trainees with a modern environment in which to relax and socialise when off duty."
HMS Raleigh is the Royal Navy's premier South West training establishment providing training to all rating recruits to the Service and a range of specialist courses.