Discovery of a Hidden WWII Air Raid Shelter in Oldham, Greater Manchester
A fascinating WWII air raid shelter has been uncovered on the outskirts of Oldham, Greater Manchester, in an area of unused land that is often frequented by dog walkers. The shelter, concealed behind brambles, offers a glimpse into the area's wartime past. It descends 1.5 meters (5 feet) into the earth and is built with a solid brick structure and a reinforced concrete ceiling. The height from floor to ceiling measures approximately 2.4 meters (8 feet), and the individual rooms are roughly 3.7 meters by 3.7 meters (12 feet by 12 feet). There are a total of eight chambers within the shelter, and it is accessible via two entrances.
Section Two...due to deep mud no access...will update when clear
The Orb Mill: A Historic Site in Oldham
The Orb Mill, originally built in 1907, played a significant role in Oldham's industrial history. The mill, once a thriving cotton mill, ceased cotton production in 1961 but was repurposed for other uses. Notably, it was used by ICI (Imperial Chemical Industries) for wallpaper production until 1976. The mill was demolished in the early 2010s to make way for the development of Waterhead Academy, which opened its doors in November 2012.
WWII Air Raid Shelter: A Potential Refuge for Orb Mill Workers?
It is believed that the air raid shelter may have been constructed to provide protection for workers at the nearby Orb Mill during World War II. Though the shelter might not have been large enough to accommodate the entire workforce, its robust construction suggests it was designed to protect workers from bombings. With eight chambers, the shelter was likely intended for smaller groups of people. The shelter is located near a small housing estate, which appears to have been built in the mid-1930s, indicating that it could have served not only mill workers but also local residents seeking refuge during air raids.
The shelter is situated next to a stream that flows directly into the main entrance, adding to its strategic location.
The Role of Air Raid Shelters in WWII
Air raid shelters were a critical part of civil defense during World War II, especially in industrial areas like Oldham, which was a key hub for manufacturing and cotton production. Shelters were constructed to safeguard workers and residents from aerial bombings. Oldham, with its concentration of mills and factories, likely saw the construction of numerous such shelters to protect its workforce and the local population.
The Transformation of the Orb Mill Site
The Orb Mill site was cleared in the early 2010s, and the area was repurposed for the Waterhead Academy. While the demolition of the mill marked the end of its industrial legacy, the discovery of the air raid shelter adds a layer of historical significance to the site. The shelter remains a testament to the wartime history of Oldham, offering a rare glimpse into how the local community protected itself during air raids. Secrets of Orb Mill revealed
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