Introduction

The Cromer Pillbox Project exists with the aims of preserving Second World War defence instalments in Cromer and around North Norfolk. We are initially focusing on the preservation and future development and restoration of the extant defence installations on Howards Hill, NR27, Cromer. 

These extant structures include; an “L” shaped section post, A Vickers Machine Gun emplacement and a Spigot Mortar emplacement. Structures such as these were built for the primary purpose of defending against the very real threat of invasion to the British mainland after the withdrawal of the British Expeditionary Force from Dunkirk. 

Structures such as these pillboxes and “bunkers” were often constructed by the Royal Engineers or local contractors, and due to the potential imminent threat of invasion they were rushed in construction.

Whilst they were designed to hold up for as long as possible during an invasion these structures were ultimately temporary and therefore surviving the test of time, deterioration has occurred. 

Ultimately, initially we will aim to preserve the condition of these structures. Any immediate safety concerns will be addressed, and steps will be taken to preserve their life: such as cleaning, weeding, debris removal, facade and structural repair. 

After we have achieved our initial aim of preserving these structures we will then aim to renew, repair and restore these important, but yet often insignificant parts of our nation's vast history. Conservation of this standard will take time and effort, as well as funding to secure so we can continue to preserve these structures for generations to come. 

Furthermore, after conservation and restoration to their full war-time working order is complete, we will endeavour to open these defence structures to the public and create a faithful to history display involving aspects of “living history”, weapons, uniforms, and talks concerning the nature of the extent structures - the history of the site and the wider history of the Cromer and North Norfolk defence structures. 

Actions

These are the initial actions we aim to complete to work towards our first goal of preservation

Gaining access to the structures and land for means of preservation. 

Construction and fabrication of metal doors for the extant structures. 

Deployment of the doors to the structures to safeguard the sites from any future damage due to anti-social 

behaviour and vandalism.*

Ground work, including clearing of all rubbish and fly tipping of debris and waste around the site

Further work to establish safe entrance and egress to the structures.

Cleaning of interior brickwork by means of washing or laser removal of existing vandalism including paint etc.

Restoration of brickwork to secure the integrity of the structure.

Possible discussion with the local authorities to deploy at least one public bin on or near the site: hopefully to deter anti-social behaviour and to provide a resource for those passing through to dispose of litter other than the site or the environment.**

Work around the sites to prepare for restoration to the war-time order. 

 Notes

*:  This is our top priority. Securing the site is imperative. The site is currently a hotspot for antisocial behaviour and vandalism. 

**: If possible, placement of a bin can be conducted as soon as possible, this will improve the area for all visitors and passers-through such as walkers and residents. 

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