2. Tower Bridge Information & History
In the second half of the 19th century, increased commercial development led to a requirement for a new river crossing downstream of London Bridge. A traditional fixed bridge could not be built because it would cut off access by tall-masted ships to the port facilities in the Pool of London. A Special Bridge or Subway Committee was formed in 1876 to find a solution to the river crossing problem. It opened the design of the crossing to public competition. Over 50 designs were submitted, but it was not until 1884 that a design submitted by Sir Horace Jones, the City Architect (and Subway Committee judge), was approved. Construction began in 1886 and took eight years. The bridge's present colour dates from 1977 when it was painted red, white and blue for the Queen's Silver Jubilee. Originally it was painted a chocolate brown colour. More at wikipedia | Also read towerbridge.org.uk >
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