Eight First World War pillboxes in Norfolk listed as 'Grade II' buildings
The fortifications were put together between 1916 and 1918 and designed to protect the East Coast from a potential German sea attack
Eight First World War pillboxes in the county have been listed as 'Grade II' buildings by Ministers.
It means these concrete structures in and around North Walsham are of historic interest and should be preserved.
The fortifications were put together between 1916 and 1918 and formed part of Britain’s defence system against a potential German attack by sea, on the east coast.
The pillboxes still have their original steel doors, gun loop shutters and white-painted interiors that helped soldiers operate in confined spaces.
Two pillboxes at Bradfield Common defended the crossing point where Common Road meets Bradfield Beck.
At Bacton Wood, a rare semi-circular pillbox guarded the canal bridge carrying Anchor Road. Two circular pillboxes at White Horse Common flanked the former Ebridge Mill crossing on Happisburgh Road.
A circular pillbox protected the east side of Wayford Road, to the north of North Walsham and Dilham, and two pillboxes were positioned either side of the road to the west of the bridge at Royston which carries Bacton Road over the canal.
The newly listed First World War pillboxes are:
• Two First World War Pillboxes on Bradfield Common
• First World War Pillbox, Bacton Wood, North Walsham
• Two First World War Pillboxes to the north and south of Happisburgh Road, White Horse Common
• First World War Pillbox, Wayford Bridge, Wayford, Norwich
• Two First World War pillboxes to the north and south of Bacton Road, Little London, North Walsham
"A reminder of a time when determined communities prepared to defend Britain"
Tony Calladine, East of England Regional Director, Historic England, said:
“The listing of these First World War pillboxes recognises their historic significance and exceptional durability.
"These ingenious structures, often hidden in plain sight, are a reminder of a time when determined communities prepared to defend Britain during the Great War, using the pillboxes and waterways to provide a barrier to invading enemy troops.
"They now form part of the historic Norfolk landscape and tell an important story of local and national significance.”