Royal Ulster Constabulary Chief Constable Ronnie Flanagan announced that Whiterock Barracks in the centre of the strongly republican area of West Belfast is being taken out of service as security in the area is scaled back.

Mr Flanagan said the closure was part of an ongoing security review across Northern Ireland

'Normal security'

"The security situation continues to be kept under close scrutiny and further progress will depend on the operational assessment of the terrorist threat," he said.

"Our overriding concern must be the safety of the public and the safety of police and military personnel."

Northern Ireland Secretary Mo Mowlam welcomed the closure and said it was a symbol of the Good Friday peace agreement.

"It is further evidence of the commitment given in the Belfast agreement to bring about a more normal security environment," she said.

The decision has also been welcomed by the Irish Government as a spur to the peace process.

Foreign Minister David Andrews said the closure was "an important development in normalising the situation in Belfast and elsewhere in Northern Ireland - in line with the aims and objectives of the Good Friday Agreement".

The demolition of the base, known locally as Whiterock Fort, is the next step that began with the removal of Army foot patrols from heavily republican areas in Belfast and Londonderry.