Halstead Shelters

A rare group of 16 Second World War air raid shelters in Halstead, Essex, has been at risk for many years.

North Essex Heritage has been advising and supporting Halstead 21st Century Group with its campaign to preserve the cluster of buildings, all described as air raid shelters, which were built by the Courtauld company in 1939 to protect their workforce.

Halstead shelters are Inset into a grassy bank is a red metal door framed by an entrance formed of concrete blocks.

Laid out in two offset lines, the shelters are close to the former factory, but with land in short supply, many were built in the gardens of Factory Terrace and Vicarage Meadow.

Halstead 21st Century Group has had discussions with the new owners of the land where the rare buildings sit to try to secure the shelters and other assets for the public benefit. It is also monitoring planning applications for the site.

Eileen Penn, Chair – Halstead 21st Century Group:

“We owe North Essex Heritage so much.  Their continued support for our charity has been unwavering. They are extremely professional in everything they do and we will be eternally grateful for their help.”