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White Gates Level Crossing MOT01_01_19
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White Gates Level Crossing MOT01_01_19
White Gates Level Crossing, Canning Town, Newham, Greater London. Vans and horse-drawn carts on the White Gates Level Crossing, and traffic queuing on Victoria Dock Road alongside the North Woolwich Railway, 1920s.
The White Gates Level Crossing provided vehicular access from Victoria Dock Road to the Royal Victoria Dock and Silvertown, crossing the North Woolwich Railway. In 1922 the average number of vehicles crossing White Gates in 24 hours was 2, 852, an increase from 2, 173 in 1904 and 2, 496 in 1913. Due to closure of the gates for trains, road traffic was stopped for over 9 hours each day. The level crossing was therefore one of a number of bottle necks on the approach to the docks, which also included the narrow swing bridge at the west entrance of Royal Victoria Dock. It was not until the Royal Victoria and other Dock Approaches (Improvement) Act was passed in 1929 that work began on a new road scheme in the area
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 22673368
© Historic England Archive
Horse Drawn Transport Rail Transport Road Transport Congestion Level Crossing Railway Crossing Traffic Jam Wagon
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the bustling scene at White Gates Level Crossing in Canning Town, Newham, Greater London during the 1920s. The image showcases a fascinating juxtaposition of old and new modes of transportation as vans and horse-drawn carts share the road with early motor vehicles. The White Gates Level Crossing served as a vital link between Victoria Dock Road and the Royal Victoria Dock and Silvertown, crossing over the North Woolwich Railway. However, this crucial passage became notorious for causing traffic congestion due to its closure for train crossings. In fact, road traffic was halted for more than nine hours each day, creating significant bottlenecks on the approach to the docks. During this era, when automobiles were rapidly gaining popularity, it is intriguing to observe how horse-drawn transport still played a prominent role in daily life. This snapshot offers a glimpse into an evolving world where traditional methods coexisted with modern advancements. It wasn't until 1929 that improvements were finally initiated with the passing of the Royal Victoria and other Dock Approaches (Improvement) Act. This paved the way for a new road scheme in this area plagued by congestion issues. Preserved by Historic England Archive, this remarkable photograph serves as both a historical record of transportation evolution and an insight into everyday life in early 20th century London.
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