Westminster Bridge reopened as an iron bridge

Background. Westminster Bridge links Westminster on the west side and Lambeth on the east side across the River Thames. The current bridge was designed by Thomas Page and opened on 24 May 1862. Page was an English architect and civil engineer responsible for the design and construction of many bridges, including Westminster Bridge and the first Chelsea Bridge, both crossing the River Thames.

Construction. Thomas Page designed Westminster Bridge, which was built between 1854 and 1862. The bridge is painted predominantly green, matching the leather seats in the House of Commons on the side of the Palace of Westminster nearest to the bridge. This contrasts with Lambeth Bridge, which is red, matching the seats in the House of Lords.

Architectural Context. The bridge is a road-and-foot-traffic structure crossing the River Thames in London. During the 19th century, several central London road bridges were built, reflecting the era's engineering developments. Westminster Bridge's proximity to the British Parliament has made it a key site for protests in London.