Rights Managed > Historic England > Industry > Engineering and Construction > Building Motorways > M1 Motorway
Inauguration slab JLP01_01_168_103
Filename: jlp01_01_168_103.jpg
Size: 7154 x 5447 (2.3MB)
Date: 18th November 2021
Source: Historic England
Credit: A© Historic England Archive. Joh
Copyright Status: Copyrighted Work
Source: Historic England Archive
Owner URL: https://images.historicenglandservices.org.uk/
© Historic England Archive. John Laing Photographic Collection
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Historic England
Inauguration slab JLP01_01_168_103
M1, Junction 10, Slip End, Central Bedfordshire. Harold Watkinson, the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, examining the inauguration slab at Slip End during a tour of the London to Yorkshire Motorway (the M1).
This image was catalogued as part of the Breaking New Ground Project in partnership with the John Laing Charitable Trust in 2019-20
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 24083894
© Historic England Archive. John Laing Photographic Collection
1950s Civil Engineering Construction Motorway People
EDITORS COMMENTS
The print captures a significant moment in the construction of the London to Yorkshire Motorway (the M1) during the 1950s. In this image, Harold Watkinson, the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, can be seen examining the inauguration slab at Slip End, Central Bedfordshire. The slab symbolizes an important milestone in the development of this major motorway. The photograph is part of the Breaking New Ground Project in partnership with the John Laing Charitable Trust. It provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of civil engineering and showcases how infrastructure projects like these shape our modern society. Watkinson's presence highlights not only his personal interest but also emphasizes the government's commitment to improving transportation networks across Britain. This dedication laid down strong foundations for future developments and set new standards for road connectivity. The image exudes a sense of progress and ambition as it depicts individuals actively engaged in shaping their nation's future. It serves as a reminder that great achievements are born out of collaboration between visionary leaders, dedicated professionals, and hardworking laborers. This photograph from Historic England Archive offers us a window into history—an era when motorways were still being constructed and dreams were turning into reality. It invites us to appreciate both the technical expertise required for such endeavors and their lasting impact on our daily lives today.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
