WWII Pillbox, East Park Drive, Salisbury Gardens, Park
Location/Address
East Park Drive, Salisbury Gardens, Park
Type
Landmark, art work or way finder
Assets whose form and function are readily visible, but which are not Buildings. This category includes signage and works of art such as murals and statues.
Description
This type 22 pillbox is built from reinforced concrete and stone aggregate. It was designed as a lookout post to defend the airfield for use by Military or Home Guard riflemen. Hexagonal in shape, there are 5 splayed rifle ‘loops’ and a doorway, now sealed, in the 6th side.
Statement of Significance
Age
Built in 1940.Rarity
It is estimated that there are less than 6000 of a total of 28,000 pillboxes surviving.Architectural and Artistic Interest
A statue of a soldier by Preston sculptor Thompson Dagnall was added in 2009.Historic Interest
Salisbury Woodland was planted in the mid 1930’s to serve as a public recreation area as well as shelterbelt for Stanley Park Golf Course. In 1931, Blackpool Municipal Airport was built alongside on the land now occupied by Blackpool Zoo. The aerodrome closed in 1936 following the opening of the airport at Squires Gate but in 1939 the area became Stanley Park Aerodrome. When World War II broke out the aerodrome was requisitioned as an RAF parachute-training centre and a station for a night fighter squadron. The airfield was a very important part of the war effort, being a point from which aircraft flew over the Atlantic to search for submarines. Wellington Bombers were also assembled there.
Date Listed
n/a
Find Out More
Find out more about this Asset in Lancashire Local List:
https://local-heritage-list.org.uk/lancashire/asset/104
https://local-heritage-list.org.uk/lancashire/asset/104