Rights Managed > Historic England > Industry > Engineering and Construction
Demolishing the YMCA JLP01_08_087590a
Filename: jlp01_08_087590a.jpg
Size: 6549 x 5292 (10.4MB)
Date: 3rd February 2022
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
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Historic England
Demolishing the YMCA JLP01_08_087590a
Central London YMCA, Great Russell Street, Camden, Greater London. An elevated view from the north-east showing demolition of the former YMCA building before construction of the new Central London YMCA.
It was announced in February 1971 that Laing had started work on a new building at the Central London YMCA, to replace an existing building which had opened in the 1910s. The project comprised four residential towers between 6 and 12 storeys high, above a podium and basements. The basements and podium comprised Phase I of the project, and the towers were built in Phase II. Before building work began, an Icos diaphragm wall - a water-blocking reinforced concrete wall - was constructed around the site area. The new building opened in 1977
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 24303743
© Historic England Archive
1970s Demolition Hostel Razing Young Mens Christian Association
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a significant moment in the history of Central London YMCA. Taken from an elevated view, it showcases the demolition of the former YMCA building before the construction of the new facility. The image portrays a scene filled with action and anticipation as bulldozers and cranes work tirelessly to clear away what once stood proudly. In February 1971, Laing embarked on this ambitious project to replace the existing building that had served its purpose since the early 1910s. The new design featured four residential towers ranging from 6 to 12 storeys high, standing atop a podium and basements. Phase I involved constructing basements and podium while Phase II focused on erecting these towering structures. Before any construction could commence, an impressive Icos diaphragm wall was meticulously built around the site area to prevent water infiltration. This attention to detail ensured a solid foundation for this monumental undertaking. Finally, after years of planning and hard work, in 1977, Central London YMCA unveiled its brand-new building – a modern hostel designed to cater specifically to young men seeking Christian association. This photograph serves as both a testament to progress and an ode to heritage; it encapsulates not only the physical transformation but also symbolizes growth within society's ever-evolving needs. Preserved by A© Historic England Archive, this remarkable image allows us glimpses into our past while reminding us of our ability as humans to adapt and build anew.
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