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W T HENLEY / AEI CABLE WORKS AND AIR RAID SHELTER, NORTHFLEET

The company W T Henley has always been highly regarded for the manufacture of cable and electrical components and was clearly the company of choice when a system had to be devised as a countermeasure to the growing threat of German magnetic mines during the Second World War.  As a result, a new site was constructed in 1939 in Gravesend for W T Henley and a complex of tunnels built underneath to provide air raid shelter for the company’s employees.

With at least six entrances, the air raid shelter was very clearly signed internally to ensure that there was no confusion when looking for your allocated space.  Cut into chalk and lined with prefabricated concrete, the shelter tunnels were well laid out, including first aid areas and numerous latrines – in the form of Elson buckets.

The tunnels remain remarkably well preserved and have seen use in the post war era.

Location: Northfleet, Kent

Condition: Shelter, Very Good. Above ground: Poor

Date Of Visit: 07/02/11

Plan: N/A

Video: Yes ( Video Link )

More Info: Privately owned






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In the main passageway.

In the main passageway leading to the first aid room.

Entrance to the first aid room.

Inside the first aid room.

In the main passageway.

The number of sections and seat indicated give an idea of the size of the shelter.

Above ground

Above ground

Broken glass.

Above ground

Above ground

Above ground