News Summary
Oxford City Council has unveiled two new information boards to showcase the history of the Gasworks Pipe Bridge over the River Thames. This initiative, spearheaded by historian Liz Woolley, highlights the bridge’s significance since its construction in 1927. The project aims to educate the community about the industrial legacy of the gasworks, which have been a part of Oxford’s history until their closure in the 1960s. The boards serve as reminders of the area’s heritage while addressing contemporary community concerns.
Oxford Installs Information Boards to Highlight Gasworks Pipe Bridge History
Oxford City Council has installed two new information boards providing insights into the history of the Gasworks Pipe Bridge that spans the River Thames. The project represents a collaborative effort with historian Liz Woolley, who conducted research on the bridge and the surrounding gasworks in the St Ebbe’s area.
The Gasworks Pipe Bridge, originally constructed in 1927, has recently reopened after being closed for nearly four years. This structure is listed on the city council’s heritage asset register, underscoring its historical significance. The installation of information boards was funded by Councillor Anna Railton, who emphasized that the bridge serves as an important reminder of Oxford’s industrial past.
Importance of the Gasworks Pipe Bridge
The bridge was originally a functional component of the gasworks that once comprised 19 acres on either side of the Thames, located southwest of Oxford. It played a vital role in allowing workers to travel between the North Works and the newly constructed South Works of the gasworks. Nicknamed “the pipe bridge,” it carried two substantial gas pipes, which were critical to the operations at the gasworks.
Historian Liz Woolley highlighted the gasworks as an essential industrial site that significantly impacted the local community, often characterized by noise and unpleasant odors. Interestingly, the area also benefited local anglers, as the hot water discharged from cooling condensers created a favorable fishing spot along the river.
Historical Context and Recent Developments
The Oxford gasworks operated until the 1960s when they were officially closed. In the early 1970s, the bridge was repurposed as a public footbridge, which has remained in active use ever since. It now serves families living in Friars Wharf who attend St Ebbe’s School and residents of Grandpont heading into town.
Councillor Railton expressed pride in learning about the historical significance of the gasworks and its accompanying bridge. She noted that the industrial site is within the living memory of many residents, emphasizing that both the bridge and the nearby railway bridge serve as essential reminders of Oxford’s social history. The newly installed information boards aim to educate the public about the important historical context surrounding the bridge and the gasworks.
Community Response and Future Considerations
The announcement of these information boards arrives during ongoing discussions concerning the proposed Oxpens River Bridge, which has sparked local environmental concerns. The Friends of Grandpont Nature Park have formally expressed opposition to the planned bridge construction, citing fears about potential harm to the surrounding woodland.
With the installation of these information boards, Oxford City Council aims to foster a greater understanding of the region’s industrial heritage while balancing community concerns surrounding future developments. The story of the Gasworks Pipe Bridge and the gasworks in St Ebbe’s serves as a historical link that connects the past to the present, highlighting the importance of preserving local history.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- BBC News: Oxford Gasworks History
- Wikipedia: Oxford
- CrowdJustice: Save Grandpont Nature Park
- New Civil Engineer: Oxford Footbridge Closure
- Google Search: Gasworks Pipe Bridge Oxford
Author: STAFF HERE OXFORD WRITER
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