Homemade nuclear bunker in Norfolk gets Grade II listed status

A DIY nuclear bunker built in a back garden during the Cold War has been given protected status.

Despite being constructed of mainly second hand materials such as reinforced concrete, steel and brick, the one-storey bunker in Taverham, Norfolk, featured creature comforts including a spa bath and carpets.

The shelter was built by Noel Barrett in an area of private woodland in his back garden in 1982, at the height of Cold War tension in the wake of Russia's invasion of Afghanistan in 1979, to protect him and his family in the event of nuclear fall-out.

It has been given Grade II listed status due to its historic importance as one of the surviving reminders of the fear and anxiety the Cold War caused among the public, especially in Norfolk which was home to numerous airfields.

Domestic nuclear shelters were commercially available during the Cold War but few were actually built.

The decision to list the DIY bunker was based on its rarity, design andhistoric interest, experts said.

Heritage Minister Tracey Crouch said: "This unique building is a clear reminder of the fear and anxiety that was present throughout the country during the Cold War.

"Though never used, it's a part of history that should be conserved for generations to come and this Grade II listing will help do that."

Tony Calladine, listing team leader at government heritage body Historic

England, said: "This is a rare example of a private nuclear shelter as very few are known to survive.

"It vividly illustrates public anxiety during a period of heightened tension towards the end of the Cold War and therefore fully merits being Grade II listed."