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Following the launch of trove.scot in February 2025 we are now planning the retiral of some of our webservices. Canmore will be switched off on 24th June 2025. Information about the closure can be found on the HES website: Retiral of HES web services | Historic Environment Scotland

Sanday, Plain Of Fidge, Decoy Control Bunker

Decoy Site (20th Century)

Site Name Sanday, Plain Of Fidge, Decoy Control Bunker

Classification Decoy Site (20th Century)

Alternative Name(s) Or1; Q/qf; Cata Sand

Canmore ID 141085

Site Number HY74SW 28

NGR HY 7035 4138

Datum OSGB36 - NGR

Permalink http://canmore.org.uk/site/141085

Ordnance Survey licence number AC0000807262. All rights reserved.
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Administrative Areas

  • Council Orkney Islands
  • Parish Lady
  • Former Region Orkney Islands Area
  • Former District Orkney
  • Former County Orkney

Archaeology Notes

HY74SW 28 7035 4138

This decoy site is situated on the SW edge of the Plain of Fidge to the N of Cata Sand., of which only the control building survives. The bunker has had its earth covering removed, and in one end there is a small room to accommodate a power unit and switchboard. At the other end, is a second room, with a ladder, and at the top a small observation post. The decoy site simulated an airfield at night with landing lights and explosive devices to imitate bombs exploding.

Visited by RCAHMS, August 1996.

Activities

Field Visit (1999)

The remains of a control room building is all that survives of a WWII decoy airfield. The decoy airfield was located on the southwestern side of the Plain of Fidge and originally was furnished with nighttime landing lights.

Coastal Zone Assessment Survey, 1999

References

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