Westminster Bridge Commissioners

A Bill to enable a bridge to be constructed across the Thames from Westminster to Lambeth became law in May 1736. Commissioners to oversee the project were appointed with powers to acquire land and clear property to make way for the bridge. On the Westminster side, streets were very narrow and the land ownership pattern was very complex with many leases and subleases. Juries were thus necessary to decide on acquisition and compensation. Construction began in 1738 and the bridge was opened in 1750.