The aim of the building recording was to provide a detailed record and assessment of the structure. The building recording was carried out to Level 3 (Historic England 2016). In particular the record considered: � Plan form of the site. � Materials and method of construction. � Date(s) of the structure. � Function and internal layout of each component. � Fixtures and fittings (contemporary and later additions/adaptations). � Phasing. � The context of the structure within its immediate contemporary landscape and its importance on a national and regional level. A programme of building recording was carried out by the Colchester Archaeological Trust on building LEC 3 at the decommissioned Le Cateau Barracks on Colchester Garrison. Building LEC 3, which became known as the Sergeants' Mess towards the end of the 20th century, was originally constructed as Officers' Quarters for the 19th-century Artillery Barracks. LEC 3 is a Grade II listed brick building dating from 1874-5, with extensions and alterations dating to 1904 and 1922-62. The building is highly significant to Colchester for several reasons. It is one of the few surviving buildings of the early permanent barracks in the town, which evolved from the changes in military thinking that arose in the aftermath of the Crimean War; it has a direct association with the First World War, with men of the Royal Field Artillery stationed in Colchester taking part in the Battle of Le Cateau in 1914; and it has a high architectural merit, with elaborate decoration and fine fixtures and fittings, many of which have survived intact.