Rights Managed > Historic England > Industry > Engineering and Construction > Building the Barbican
Barbican construction - Cromwell Tower JLP01_08_082602
Filename: jlp01_08_082602.jpg
Size: 5245 x 6642 (3.8MB)
Date: 1st October 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
Barbican construction - Cromwell Tower JLP01_08_082602
BARBICAN, CITY OF LONDON. looking north-west towards the construction of Cromwell Tower on the Barbican development site, with the Speed House terrace block on the right.
Work began on building Londons Barbican development in 1962. The construction of this complex megastructure was designed to be carried out in six phases, with different contractors working on the site. In 1964, John Laing and Son Ltd won the tender for Phase III. Laing were also responsible for the construction of Phase V, which included the Barbican Arts Centre, Frobisher Crescent and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 23819115
© Historic England Archive. John Laing Photographic Collection
Construction Flats High Rise Residential Tower Block
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a pivotal moment in the construction of the iconic Barbican development in London. The image showcases the impressive Cromwell Tower, rising majestically amidst an array of cranes and scaffolding. As we gaze upon this snapshot from history, we are transported back to a time when this megastructure was still taking shape. The Barbican development project commenced in 1962 and aimed to transform the City of London landscape. Divided into six phases, each with different contractors involved, it was John Laing and Son Ltd who secured Phase III's tender in 1964. Not only did they oversee the construction of Cromwell Tower but also played a significant role in Phase V's completion. As our eyes wander across the photograph, we notice Speed House terrace block standing proudly on the right side. This juxtaposition highlights both old and new architectural styles coexisting harmoniously within this ambitious urban renewal project. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, it is important to acknowledge that these tower blocks were not solely intended for commercial use; rather, they provided much-needed residential spaces for Londoners. The high-rise flats offered modern living solutions while contributing to the city's ever-growing skyline. Preserved by Historic England Archive, this print serves as a testament to human ingenuity and determination in shaping our built environment. It reminds us that even amidst construction chaos, beauty can emerge - transforming cities into vibrant hubs where people live, work, and thrive.
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