Wessex Archaeology have discovered of an Underground Monitoring Post (UGMP) in Arborfield dating back to the Cold War, while working on behalf of Balfour Beatty as part of Wokingham Borough Council’s Major Highways Project procured through the Scape National Civil Engineering and Infrastructure framework, superseded by the Civil Engineering framework.
The site was first used as an above-ground observation post from 1936, and then as a UGMP from 1961 until closure in 1968. The structure, part of a national network of 1,563 strategically placed UGMPs, was built for the Royal Observer Corps (ROC) in January 1961, part of preparations for the reporting of radioactive fall-out, should a nuclear strike occur.
Wessex Archaeology senior research manager, Dr Bob Clarke, an expert in the field of Cold War Archaeology said. “It’s an extraordinary find as many of the sites connected with the Cold War are still secret.”
Working closely
Wokingham Borough Council is working closely with the Arborfield Local History Society on plans to install a memorial stone as a fitting tribute, dedicated to the brave members of the Arborfield Royal Observer Corps.
Diana Thorne, a retired teacher and an active member of the Arborfield Local History Society, commented: “We are keen to honour the local men who were volunteer members of the Arborfield Royal Observer Corps.”
Mrs Thorne, who has lived in Arborfield for 30 years, has received full support on her proposal from the Royal Observer Corps (ROC) Heritage Group as well as from the Arborfield and Newland Parish Council.
Jay Judge, project manager on the Arborfield Cross Relief Road Major Highways Project at Wokingham Borough Council, said: “This is a fascinating find and we welcome the opportunity to work with the Arborfield Local History Society to pay tribute to the brave volunteers of the Arborfield Royal Observer Corps.”
Balfour Beatty project manager, Matthew Parkes, said: “This is a significant discovery for the Cold War Archaeology; it’s a unique historical find that acknowledges the importance of the Aborfield Royal Observer Corps’ role throughout the Cold War.”
Mark Robinson, Scape Group chief executive commented: “This is an important discovery for generations to come to understand the gravity of the Cold War and I am proud that there will be a historical legacy as a result of the much-needed improved infrastructure for Arborfield.”
More information
For further information visit the Council's website and search for Arborfield Cross Relief Road.
