The River Thames is getting a brand-new embankment in central London
London owes a tonne to Sir Joseph Bazalgette. In the 19th century, when the capital was suffering through the 'Great Stink', Bazalgette came up with a revolutionary sewage system – one that would stop raw waste overflowing into the streets, help prevent deadly cholera outbreaks, and continue to keep the city clean and smelling fresh for the next 150 years. Sir Joseph paved the way for London's new 'super sewer' and now, there's a new Thames embankment being named in his honour.
After first being announced in 2020, Bazalgette Embankment has been on the cards for several years now. It's the largest of seven new public embankments (or 'mini-parks') across London that have been made possible by Thames Tideway Tunnel, a 25km long sewer that reached completion last year and became fully connected in February. It'll be on the Blackfriars Bridge foreshore, spanning 1.5 acres with a new walkway and an open space for recreation and leisure activities. Seventy one trees and 3,000 plants were planted to bring it to life.
Sir Peter Bazalgette, the engineer's great-great-grandson, said: 'There's a special magic about canals and rivers. People love being beside water, and they appreciate having the room to enjoy waterside recreation, so to have seven new areas beside the Thames that can be enjoyed and explored while walking is going to be a marvellous thing.
'Specifically, the one next to Blackfriars Bridge, which will be named after good old Sir Joe, makes my heart beat proud.'
Other new embankments have opened in Putney, Chelsea and Albert Embankment, with others set for Heathwall Pumping Station at Nine Elms and Victoria Embankment. You can expect Bazalgette Embankment to open to the public this autumn.
Riverside rest and relaxation
There's nothing like a stroll along the Thames to replenish your batteries. Once you've soaked in the luscious new green spaces, head to one of Time Out's favourite waterside pubs or restaurants. To explore more urban nature, check out some of the prettiest walks London has to offer.
South London could be getting a brand-new music venue in old railway arches.
The wild, magical forest that is one of the best day trips from London.
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