NHER 38917 (Monument record) - World War Two structure

October 2004. Norfolk NMP.
A possible World War Two structure is indicated by a complex area of rubble, disturbed ground and obvious landscaping within an area of open recreation ground at Suffield Park (S1 and S2). Some possible military structures are also visible. Six communal air raid shelters were constructed within Suffield Park during the early years of the war (Brooks, 1988:33) (S3) and it is possible that this area of demolition may indicate the former location of a large shelter. The site is centred on TG 2282 4113.
The main component of the site is a large cleared or bulldozed area and slightly sunken exposed surface, centred on TG 2280 4114. This has several well-worn paths leading to it from the road. This exposed area has a conjoined component to the east, possibly defined by walls in places, measuring 6m by 5.5m. There are also several other cleared or exposed areas, which have all been defined by an extent of area of the NMP map. The perimeter of the recreation area also has evidence of recent disturbance and landscaping. The site overall has the appearance of demolition and clearance work during 1946 (S1 and S2), this may be due to bomb damage of an existing building that does not get rebuilt, although this seems unlikely on a recreation area. Additionally no building is marked on the Ordnance Survey 2nd edition map (1902-7, 25”) (S4). This evidence could suggest that a wartime structure is being demolished. Given its location and the recorded presence of six communal air raid shelters in the Suffield Park vicinity, this would seem a likely explanation.
Two small structures are also located at the northern end of the site at TG 2286 4120. One is upstanding and rectangular and 4m by 3m, the second structure is circular, 3.5m, with a central mark and a conjoined linear component to the west (S1). This feature has no obvious height in 1946 and has the appearance of concrete. This may be the base and holdfast for a former gun emplacement. However in December 1946 (S2) there is a group of buildings in this general vicinity and therefore they may relate to the recreational use of the site. In April 1946 (S1) there is also possible rectangular structure or hut at TG 2287 4110 to the south east of the site.
S. Massey (NMP), 28 October 2004.