Nothe Fort is appealing to local residents across Weymouth and Portland to come forward with memories, documents, or first-hand experiences relating to the Fort’s Cold War-era nuclear bunker.
Constructed as part of Britain’s civil defence planning in the 1980s, the District Control Centre, as the bunker was officially termed, was intended to remain discreet and operationally hidden, even while Nothe Fort was open as a public museum above ground. As part of a new programme of research and interpretation, the Fort is working to uncover the human stories that shaped how the bunker was prepared, staffed, and eventually decommissioned.
The team is especially keen to hear from anyone who:
- Was earmarked to work in the bunker if a nuclear strike had occurred
- Took part in its fitting out, preparation, or operational planning
- Was involved in its decommissioning, clearance, or handover
- Remembers the secrecy surrounding the bunker during the 1980s
These contributions will help build an accurate and engaging interpretation of the site, ensuring that an important chapter of local Cold War history is preserved for future generations.
Lucy Watkins, Co‑General Manager, Nothe Fort says:
“The bunker beneath Nothe Fort was created during one of the most tense periods of the Cold War, yet for many years its role has remained largely unseen. By gathering the memories of those who were connected with it, we can finally bring this part of the Fort’s history to light and help illuminate the wider role Nothe Fort played in civil defence and Cold War communications. Just a small recollection could help us understand a chapter of local history that has never fully been told.”
Material gathered through this call out will support the development of new interpretation displays and exhibitions as part of Nothe Fort’s ongoing work to explore and present its Cold War heritage.
Do you have a story about the Cold War Bunker and its creation?
Please fill out our quick Online Form found here: https://forms.office.com/e/ZexArKgheY
