A Cold War control centre designed to withstand a nuclear attack has been given listed building status.

Historic England informed St Albans District Council the Air Raid Precaution Railway Control Centre in Station Road, Bricket Wood, would be a recognised building of “special architectural and historic interest” after a council cabinet meeting on December 20.

The now-disused facility was used in 1954 as a defence against Soviet aggression.

The entrance to the Air Raid Precaution Railway Control Centre in Station Road

It is now a Grade Two-listed building following an assessment by the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.

Cllr Mary Maynard, who is responsible for planning and building control, said: “I’m delighted that the importance of this building has been recognised.

“As the local planning authority, we will have to give consent to any modifications.

“This centre fell into disuse decades ago and was at one time being used for storage by a building supplies company with its historic importance going unrecognised.

“I am pleased that it has now been given listed building protection.”

For more information, see: https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1459132