Metropolitan Board of Works

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SirJohnThwaites

Cholera in London 1866

LordMagheramorne

Metropolitan Board of Works (MBW) was the principal instrument of London's local government from its establishment in 1855 until its eventual replacement by the London County Council in 1889. The MBW was the first metropolitan government body charged with various infrastructure and sanitary responsibilities across the whole of London, excluding the City of London, which maintained its independence.

History

The need for a metropolitan authority was recognized due to the rapid growth of London in the 19th century, which led to a chaotic and ineffective system of local governance, particularly in sanitary matters, street management, and infrastructure development. The Public Health Act 1848 and subsequent legislation paved the way for the creation of the MBW.

The MBW was constituted under the Metropolis Management Act 1855. Its members were not directly elected by the public but were appointed by parish vestries and district boards, with the City of London also nominating members. This method of constitution was a subject of criticism and demands for reform throughout the MBW's existence.

Functions and Achievements

The MBW was responsible for a wide range of public works including sewage systems, main drainage, street improvements, bridges, embankments, and public buildings. One of its most notable achievements was the construction of the London sewerage system, masterminded by Sir Joseph Bazalgette. This project was crucial in improving the health and sanitation of the city, which had suffered from severe cholera outbreaks and was plagued by the "Great Stink" of 1858.

Other significant works include the creation of the Embankments (Victoria, Albert, and Chelsea) which reclaimed land from the Thames and improved traffic flow, the construction of major thoroughfares such as Shaftesbury Avenue and Northumberland Avenue, and the establishment of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade.

Criticism and Demise

Despite its achievements, the MBW was often criticized for its inefficiency, corruption, and the lack of direct accountability to London's citizens. The complexity of London's local government system, with its overlapping jurisdictions and responsibilities, also hindered the MBW's effectiveness.

The Local Government Act 1888 led to the establishment of county councils across England and Wales, and it was decided that London needed a single, elected authority. Consequently, the London County Council was established by the Local Government Act 1899, taking over the responsibilities of the MBW.

Legacy

The MBW played a crucial role in the development of London's infrastructure during a period of rapid urban growth. Its legacy includes not only the physical infrastructure it created but also the precedent it set for metropolitan governance. The challenges and criticisms it faced highlighted the need for more democratic and efficient urban governance, leading to the establishment of the London County Council and, eventually, the Greater London Authority.

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