Forum Topic

The Ham: Will the remain's of "Brunel's" Railway viaduct be saved?

If you go down The Ham roadway..and before you get to Teddies Nursury...(in the old School ..originally built in 1815.. according to a plaque on the right hand side wall) you will come across the remains of the railway bridge/arches.It looks as though these arches are occupied by some small business on the right side..and by delapidated vehicles,a caravan, and general junk on the other.The area could do with a Community Clean-up..like we did on the Brentford Riverbank with Nigel Moore and friends.  When the area is spruced up a good bit..it will then be in better condition for the the surveyors and others to judge whether it could be renovated and saved as part of Brentford's Heritage.Perhaps there is a plan somewhere. The 1895 map of the area..shows the small triangle...a grass area I believe where "Fairs and fetes were held...according to a lady I met at Gunnersbury Museum yesterday.I understand that the railway Bridge and the viaduct over THE HAM was built in 1859 ish..at the time of Brunel's death.Any further information anyone..or suggestions?

Jim Lawes ● 7390d3 Comments

John and Gareth: Many thanks.The large arches on view have all been partitioned..to make a secure area ..underneath the arches! I wonder what kind of little buildings are at the back ..adjoining the Canal.....must go down and have a look!

Jim Lawes ● 7390d

The contract for the construction of the viaduct and railway was signed in May 1859. The contractors were the Tredwell's based in Shropshire somewhere. That company was a  significant railways and canal brige contractor of the era - a search on 'google' will show other bridges etc built by them.I'll have a look at the contract plan and see whether it helps Jims query.

John Wood ● 7390d

Jim The office of the Borough Valuer should be able to inform you as to who owns the land. Try 020 8276 2700

Gareth Evans ● 7390d