Dodge Hill Air Raid Shelter - Stockport

History

“Dodge Hill Air Raid Shelters, located in Stockport, are a significant piece of wartime history, providing vital protection for civilians during World War II. Built in 1939, at the onset of the war, these shelters were part of Stockport's efforts to safeguard its population from the devastating effects of German bombing raids. The shelters were carved into the hillside beneath the town, offering a secure refuge for up to 1,000 people. The underground complex consists of a series of interlinked tunnels, each reinforced with brick and concrete to withstand bomb blasts and vibrations. Stockport, being an important industrial hub, was targeted by Luftwaffe bombers, and the shelters played a crucial role in saving lives. During air raids, families would seek shelter, often enduring long hours in dark, cramped conditions until the all-clear signal sounded. The site was also equipped with a system of ventilation and water supply to ensure relative comfort and safety. After the war, the shelters were largely forgotten, with only occasional use for storage, until they were rediscovered in the 1990s”.