London River Crossings

Our Contribution

PLACE LOGIC was used to assess the impact of bridges across the Thames between the eighteenth century and the present day. Historic maps were analysed as different bridges were inserted, and the impact on connectivity and the growth of local centres North and South of the river can clearly be seen.

The Outcome

1746 – Street Activity and Place Connectivity maps (Figs 1 & 2) show:

• The majority of urban centres are located within Westminster and are constrained to the North Bank due to the relatively low number of bridges capable of connecting with the South Bank.
• There is a concentration of highly active streets connecting North and South London, mostly associated with London and Westminster Bridges.

1882 – Street Activity and Place Connectivity maps (Figs 3 & 4) show:

• Commercial activity has now gravitated eastwards towards Tower Hamlets.
• The insertion of eight new bridges along the Thames has encouraged growth of local centres on the South Bank.

2014 – Street Activity and Place Connectivity maps (Figs 5 & 6) show:

• Commercial activity has intensified between Westminster and the City, largely due to the increase in connections between Westminster and London Bridges.