Waterloo bridgePPT
IntroductionWaterloo Bridge, also known as Waterloo International Bridge, is ...
IntroductionWaterloo Bridge, also known as Waterloo International Bridge, is a historic bridge that spans the River Thames in London, England. It is located between Waterloo Station and the London Eye, connecting the City of Westminster and the London Borough of Lambeth. The bridge, designed by Sir Horace Jones and built between 1811 and 1817, was Grade II listed in 1973 and is now a World Heritage Site.HistoryThe idea of a bridge across the Thames at Waterloo dates back to the 1790s when Parliamentarian John Soame presented a bill to build a bridge between Westminster and Lambeth. However, the bill was defeated in the House of Commons. In 1809, a competition was held to design a new bridge, and Jones' design was chosen. The bridge was built between 1811 and 1817 using 2000 workers. It was officially opened on 1 August 1817.During World War II, the bridge was damaged by German bombs in 1940 and again in 1944. It was repaired after the war and reopened on 25 October 1945. In 1962, the bridge was Grade II listed. In 2000, it was announced that the bridge would be renovated as part of the Thames Path project. The renovation work began in 2002 and was completed in 2004.DesignWaterloo Bridge is a masonry arch bridge with five arches. The central arch is 90 feet (27 meters) wide and the two side arches are each 60 feet (18 meters) wide. The two end arches are each 30 feet (9 meters) wide. The bridge is 375 feet (114 meters) long and 60 feet (18 meters) wide. It is made of limestone ashlar with sandstone coping stones.The bridge is supported by piers that are faced with stone and have a castellated parapet. The parapets have iron railings that were added in the 19th century. The bridge originally had tolls, but these were removed in 1869.AccessibilityWaterloo Bridge is accessible for pedestrians and cyclists. It is also accessible for wheelchair users with assistance. There are no steps on the bridge, and the surface is generally smooth and even. However, there may be some unevenness in the bridge surface in places due to historical damage and renovation work.Points of interestOne of the main attractions of Waterloo Bridge is its views of London. From the middle of the bridge, you can see some of the city's most famous landmarks such as Big Ben, the London Eye, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Tower of London. You can also see the River Thames as it flows through London, including the various bridges and boats on the river.Another point of interest is the history of Waterloo Bridge itself. As a Grade II listed building and now a World Heritage Site, it is a landmark of London's history and architecture. The bridge is also a popular location for tourists and Londoners alike to take photos and pose for selfies.