The Sub Out Stations in WW2 were a part of the secret planning in the event of an actual invasion taking place. They were located underground (hence the 'Sub' prefix) and housed a radio station so that the movement of the invading forces could be transmitted via radio ('Out') to the main HQ where defending forces could be coordinated, based on the information received. The bunker at Hollingbourne is a rare survivor of the type.
Constructed at speed, they were similar in style to a small Nissen hut. Access was via a ladder, in a shaft covered with a concealed hatch on the surface. The bunker was divided into three sections by the use of cinder blocks. The first section (where you first entered the 'complex') was used for storage and had an armoured door. The central section,the largest room, was where the radio equipment was located and crewed by a complement of three members of the ATS. The third compartment housed a small generator and access to the escape tunnel. Curiously, given the clandestine and extremely dangerous nature of the work for which the bunker was designed, there was no provision for sleeping or sanitary arrangements! The team at Dunkirk 1940 would like to express our grateful thanks to Mr Ed Tyhurst for permission to use the images below, taken in January 2017.
Constructed at speed, they were similar in style to a small Nissen hut. Access was via a ladder, in a shaft covered with a concealed hatch on the surface. The bunker was divided into three sections by the use of cinder blocks. The first section (where you first entered the 'complex') was used for storage and had an armoured door. The central section,the largest room, was where the radio equipment was located and crewed by a complement of three members of the ATS. The third compartment housed a small generator and access to the escape tunnel. Curiously, given the clandestine and extremely dangerous nature of the work for which the bunker was designed, there was no provision for sleeping or sanitary arrangements! The team at Dunkirk 1940 would like to express our grateful thanks to Mr Ed Tyhurst for permission to use the images below, taken in January 2017.
Remains of the Armoured Door
Back wall of the central chamber
Remains of the armoured door and entrance to the escape tunnel
View down the Escape Tunnel
The Access Ladder
Exterior of the Escape Tunnel
The Ventilation Pipes
Ariel exit point
