History enthusiasts have the opportunity to purchase a Second World War bunker with a substantial surrounding plot for £65,000, but there is a significant drawback. The former military Blasford Hill Bunker, measuring 60 square metres, is being sold along with the field it occupies off Essex Regiment Way in Chelmsford, Essex.
However, the structure is quite aged and requires extensive renovation to become habitable or suitable for any historical military pursuits. Two of its walls feature large gaping holes, and the concrete interior is completely empty. The bunker lacks basic amenities such as running water and electricity, and moss and stinging nettles have replaced soldiers as occupants.
Prospective buyers would also need to obtain planning permission to develop the property beyond its current dilapidated state. On the positive side, the sale includes 400 square metres of land, offering beautiful green English pastures. Compared to the average property price in the area, which stands at £458,000, this bunker is seven times cheaper, representing an absolute bargain.
The World War Two Blasford Hill Bunker is being marketed by Tribute Land estate agents and is also listed on Rightmove. A spokesperson for Tribute Land commented: 'Second World War bunker, available for a variety of uses subject to the necessary consent. Explore the potential of a distinctive historical property. This robust structure offers a unique character and the chance for a visionary project.' They added: 'Appreciate the unique history of the structure. Requires thorough investigation into planning and building regulations.'
Once planning approval is secured, the building could be transformed into something quite different. This would not be the first bunker to undergo a remarkable makeover. Another World War Two bunker in Dorset has been converted into a lucrative B&B, charging £350 per night. This windowless concrete structure, built into the hillside at Ringstead Bay in 1941, originally served as an RAF radar base.
It was part of Winston Churchill's 'Chain Home' early-warning system, a network of bunkers along the south coast used to track the German Luftwaffe. Later, it was refurbished and used as a rotor station to monitor Soviet bombers during the Cold War before being decommissioned in 1956. Today, the old bunker has been given a new lease of life as a holiday home, complete with a kitchen, three bedrooms, and stunning views across Dorset's Jurassic Coast. It has proven popular with holidaymakers, who have booked it out for the summer.
