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Second World War pillbox, junction of Debden Water and Debden Road (EHER 10414)

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Summary

On the south-west side of the junction is a concrete Type FW3/28 pillbox.

Map

Location

Grid reference Centred TL 5440 3378 (7m by 6m)
Civil Parish DEBDEN, UTTLESFORD, ESSEX

Type and Period

Description

The ditch/stream known as Debden Water is crossed by Debden Road at this point and the ditch, dry at the time of the site visit, is both wide and deep. On the south-west side of the junction is a concrete Type FW3/28 pillbox. <1> Unlike the Type FW3/28A which was built to house both a 2-pounder anti-tank gun and Bren guns in a separate chamber, this type only accommodated the artillery piece, with no loopholes for machine-guns. This example is in good condition and nicely situated. Unusually, it has a wide ramp at the rear, south side, which leads from the meadow down into the interior. This has been cut out of the ground to allow easier access for the gun. Three photos of site. <2> NRHE data transfer: A Second World War Type 28 reinforced concrete pillbox with revetted walls to rear entry located near the waterfall at Debden Water. <3>

Sources

  • <1> Bibliographic reference: Wills, H.. 1985. Pillboxes: A Study of U.K. Defences 1940. List, p.17.
  • <2> Photograph: Nash, F.. 1996. WWII defences. Three frames.
  • <3> Webpage: Clarke, J.. 1996-2003. Defence of Britain Database.

Other References

  • Old SMR Number: TL53
  • NRHE identifier: 1421572
  • National Monuments Record: TL 53 SW 72

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