Private Bunker Demand Increases Due to Lack of Shelter Space for Nuclear Conflict
Despite this, producers caution that there is limited time to construct these shelters, as some can take nearly a year to build and cost up to £4 million.
The insufficient underground shelter space for protection during a nuclear conflict is leading individuals to invest in private bunkers.
The fear of potential nuclear fallout, particularly amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, is a primary driver behind individuals preparing for worst-case scenarios, according to Charles Hardman of Subterranean Spaces.
Unlike traditional prepping, which focuses on self-sufficiency for food and fuel shortages, Mr. Hardman’s clients are looking for multi-million pound, nuclear blast-proof steel bunkers built at depth, featuring integrated air systems equipped with specialist nuclear filters.
Check the Box
“On average, these bunkers cost between three and a half to four million pounds,” he revealed. “For that price, you get a 300 square feet bunker with a tunnel,” he added.
His clients include energy company directors, Middle Eastern royalty, and European car company owners.
He mentioned that the fear of nuclear conflict, particularly due to recent events in Ukraine, is a significant motivator for bunker purchases, along with a desire to flaunt wealth.
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Wealthy individuals see owning a nuclear bunker as a status symbol, similar to owning luxury cars or multiple properties in different locations, Mr. Hardman noted.
He also confirmed that demand in England has leveled off, largely due to decreased media coverage of the Ukraine conflict.
“When people start to worry, that’s when they call us. But by then, it’s already too late. It takes between eight to ten months to a year to build these shelters. People should start preparing now. Across Europe, many countries are already taking action,” he emphasized, citing Sweden, Switzerland, and Germany as examples.
He cautioned that there is no such preparedness in the UK. “There’s nothing,” he lamented.
Nuclear Facilities
In March, President Vladimir Putin warned the West that Russia is “technically ready” for nuclear war.
Approaching World War Three
According to Paul Thompson of UK Nuke Shelters, some countries have enough bunkers to accommodate their entire populations.
“Israel mandates a safe room for every property. China and Russia have constructed extensive bunkers for their citizens, yet in the UK, it’s a different story – ‘No, we don’t need bunkers’,” he remarked.
Mr. Thompson’s company focuses on building smaller, more affordable bunkers, ranging from £20,000 to £150,000.
“We typically cater to individuals who are not billionaires or millionaires but still wish to invest in a bunker. While some can afford luxurious facilities with cinemas and swimming pools, our offerings are more budget-friendly,” he explained.
He noted a growing interest driven by heightened awareness of potential conflicts.
“More and more people are realizing that we are inching closer to World War Three between NATO and Russia,” he observed.
People are most concerned about nuclear warfare followed by climate change.
“There is a common set of reasons that motivate individuals, albeit sometimes in a different order,” he noted.
‘Want to Promote Your Bunker?’
He pointed out that discussing bunkers has become more socially acceptable.
“We had Anderson shelters during World War Two, and while they cost money, they saved lives,” he said.
However, the key difference now is that fallout shelters, designed for protection against radiation, may require occupants to stay for two weeks or longer. Therefore, living conditions inside the shelter must be comfortable, with adequate sleeping arrangements, cooking facilities, showers, entertainment, and more.
“Even today, we’re still monitoring radiation levels in Wales due to fallout from Chernobyl,” he added.
Mr. Thompson’s wife, a trained psychologist, creates video content to help individuals cope in potential bunker scenarios.
He mentioned that obtaining planning permission depends on various factors, such as location and individual circumstances. Some clients may prefer to keep their bunker project confidential.
“Do you want to showcase your bunker? Because when things go south, everyone will want to be in your bunker – if you only built it for your family, you won’t be able to accommodate the entire neighborhood,” he emphasized.
