NHER 53376 (Monument record) - World War Two anti landing obstacles and military structures

June 2010. Norfolk NMP.
World War Two anti-landing obstacles, in the form a cross pattern of pits and linear ditches, are visible as earthworks on aerial photographs (S1)-(S5), centred at TG 2303 0572. They are visible as light-coloured marks in 1942 (S1), with no real height, and they may have already been backfilled by this date. It is also possible that they were dug for practice, as the field does not look like an especially likely place to attempt to land a plane. The obstacles have been mapped schematically to provide a representation of their location and size, rather than a detailed depiction of their outline or that of any upcast spoil. A possible mound/pit or structure, only vaguely visible and only in 1942, has been mapped by extent at TG 2297 0570.
Additionally the southeastern end of the field in which the obstacles lie appears to have been separated off, and several small huts are visible within the area. While an agricultural purpose is possible – it may reflect poultry-keeping, for example, as in the adjacent field to the northeast – it is also reminiscent of other small World War Two military sites in the county (for example, searchlights emplacements), although there is no clear indication of its function.
Furthermore, a small concrete structure, its entrance protected by a blast wall, is visible a short distance to the northeast (at TG 2317 0575; not visible in 1942 (S1)). This is reminiscent of ARP wardens’ posts, Home Guard shelters and air raid shelters identified elsewhere in Norwich. Given the rather out-of the way location, but close to other military activity, a Home Guard shelter seems most probable.
S. Tremlett (NMP), 25 June 2010.