The British Ministry of Defence today announced a reduction in troop levels in Northern Ireland due in 14 months time.
The King's Own Scottish Borderers - based at Lisanelly Barracks in Omagh, Co Tyrone - will not be replaced at the end of the tour of duty in August 2006.
The change was based on the army and the Police Service Chief Constable's assessment of the security situation and "reflects the increasing success of the Police Service of Northern Ireland in dealing with the threat from terrorism without routine military support," said the MoD.
It said the army would continue to keep force levels in Northern Ireland under "regular review".
Despite the decision to vacate the Lisanelly Barracks, the army said no decision had been taken on its future and whether it would be handed over for civilian use as has happened with a number of previously closed bases.
There are some 11,000 British military personnel in Northern Ireland, and the departure of the King's Own Scottish Borderers will reduce numbers by around 550.
PA