IMAGES TAKEN NEAR TO
Bridge Close, ROMFORD, RM7 0AU

Use of concrete channels in urban rivers enables better management of the watercourse. Here the channel has two levels, a narrow low section and a broad upper section. Under normal flow conditions such as those seen here the water is constrained to the lower channel but it is then deep enough to sustain fish and other life. Under flood conditions the upper section of the channel becomes covered in water but the concrete walls should, in theory, be high enough not to be breached and flooding is avoided. This view was taken from the Oldchurch Road bridge.

The Rom is a tributary of the Thames, and its name changes to the River Beam as it gets closer to London. A large part of it is culverted, such as the stretch that runs through Romford's town centre. To me it seems that much of the uncovered parts of the river have been neglected and disregarded by many of the town planners and local powers-that-be of the past, however recently there have been proposed moves by local people and Havering Council to improve the condition and appearance of the river.

The view looking southeast a little further east of Romford station is less interesting - all you see here is the rear of the nearby large Sainsbury's store and the last of the viaduct before it comes a plain concrete bridge crossing Waterloo Road.

A large telephone exchange is to the rear (left) of this block, and apparently attached to it. The block itself seems to be offices.

Oldchurch Hospital is due for closure in the next month and is likely to be demolished soon after. Many buildings date from the early part of the 20th century and this and other photographs will provide a record of this long established hospital. See Image for the new hospital.

Oldchurch Hospital is due for closure in the next month and is likely to be demolished soon after. Many buildings date from the early part of the 20th century and this and other photographs will provide a record of this long established hospital. See Image for the new hospital.

Oldchurch Hospital is due for closure in the next month and is likely to be demolished soon after. Many buildings date from the early part of the 20th century and this and other photographs will provide a record of this long established hospital. See Image for the new hospital.

Oldchurch Hospital is due for closure in the next month and is likely to be demolished soon after. Many buildings date from the early part of the 20th century and this and other photographs will provide a record of this long established hospital. See Image for the new hospital.

Looking towards South Street