Locally Listed Building: Thornton BPM (Laboratory Building No27), Pool Lane, Ince (LL41)

Thornton BPM Laboratory LL41 (Previously LL IN/3) Address: Building No. 27, off Pool Lane, Ince Architect: Sir A J Cobham with Sir J Burnet & Partners Date: C1943 Description Built to house the work of Dutch escapees from occupied Holland, who continued their work here as “Bataafe Petroleum Maatschappij”. Original purpose was to derive chemicals from petroleum (DDT Teepol). Architecturally a subsidiary “pavilion” to the main Aero Engine Laboratory. A short square central tower, less dramatic than buildings 38 and 50 (LL43 and LL44), possibly reflecting the haste with which it was constructed under wartime conditions. Some relief sculpture of an aeronautical theme with distinctive Art Deco style external light fittings. A modest interpretation of the International style that has its origins in the “Bauhaus” School of Architecture of 1920s Germany. Condition Good. Current use In use as offices. Updated November 2006