Site of Second World War Pillbox, Stour crossing, north of Manningtree (EHER 21590)

The site of a Second World War hexagonal pillbox located at Stour Crossing to the north of Manningtree.

Original HER entry merged with NRHE data import. Overlooking the long bridge which crosses the River Stour from Essex to Suffolk is a large pillbox clearly sited to cover an enemy crossing. It stands on a dyke which has been built up since World War Two so that whereas its loopholes would once have had a clear view of the bridge, now the ground level is at the same height as the roof. However, as the ground drops away on the S side of the dyke the rear of the pillbox is on clear display and it can be accessed through the low entrance. It is hexagonal, built of concrete, approximately 18 feet across with walls around 3 feet 6 inches thick. Inside, there is anti-ricochet walling, a heavy T-shaped central pillar, and flared out loopholes. Five photos of site. <1> Additional references: <2> <3> <4>.