Second World War air raid wardens’ post, Kirby Cross (EHER 21354)

Second World War structure, likely an air raid wardens’ post.

Defence of Tendring survey 2009 Second World War structure, likely a air raid wardens’ post. Standing on the south side of the Kirby Cross junction, just yards from the road, is a rectangular, flat-roofed building. It is constructed of brick, has a 6-inch concrete roof and measures 13’6” x 12’0”. On the long side facing the road there are two adjacent entrances, each sealed up by chipboard. On the reverse side there are two small airbricks, now broken through. An electric cable, seemingly modern, leads through one of them. It was not possible to see inside the structure. Six photos were taken. <1> The building can be seen on aerial photographs taken in July 1946. The structure, walls and roof all have the appearance of WWII construction. It is possibly a Civil Defence building but the two side-by-side entrances are a puzzle. Inspection of the interior may help to resolve the identification. <2> Four or five years ago (around 2005) an article or letter in the Clacton Gazette newspaper discussed local listing of historic buildings. This structure was referred to as a World War Two Air Raid Wardens Post. While this is a distinct possibility, the design does not conform to others extant at Holland-on-Sea (SMRs 21168 & 21259) and Harwich (not yet surveyed). Nevertheless, in the absence of more evidence this is the identification provisionally given. <3>