Walking Over the River Thames: Why is Water Missing Under London Bridge?

Often, when visitors cross London Bridge over the River Thames, they are puzzled by the lack of visible water beneath them. The question, 'Why is there no water under London Bridge when people say they are walking over the River Thames?' is a common query. This article will explain this curious phenomenon, explore the historical context, and delve into the complexities surrounding the River Thames and London's water supply.

The Historical Context of London Bridge

London Bridge has a long and storied history, with its earliest recorded reference dating back to the 1st century AD. Over the centuries, the bridge has undergone multiple reconstructions. The famous 'old' London Bridge that was demolished in 1759 and rebuilt in the Arizona desert in 1968 is a prime example of this architectural evolution.

The 'Old' London Bridge: A Story of Transatlantic Relocation

In the 1960s, the 'old' London Bridge was put on the market by the City of London. American entrepreneur Robert Paxton McCulloch secured the winning bid of ￡1,020,000 (￡2.4 million at the time) on April 18, 1968. This bridge, featuring 10,276 numbered granite blocks, was disassembled and reassembled in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, almost a decade later in 1973. It stands as a testament to the unique history of London's architectural landmarks.

The Anatomy of the New London Bridge

Replacing the old bridge in 1973, the current 'New' London Bridge in London is not a tidal bridge. Instead, it is a fixed structure designed purely for vehicular traffic. As a result, there is no flowing water beneath it, leading to the confusion among visitors. The architect Robert Matthew Spencer designed this 700-foot-long bridge, completed in 1973 at a cost of ￡15.5 million.

The Tidal Nature of the River Thames

The River Thames is tidal in the majority of its course, meaning that even during periods of severe drought, there will still be water under any bridge.

Skeletal Water Supply Under Tidal Influence

While it is true that the freedom of the River Thames from obstruction is a source of pride for Londoners, the river's tidal nature ensures that there is always water under the bridges for most of the year. However, rare cases of low water levels might occur, leading to concerns about the river running dry. These instances, however, are more related to specific weather conditions rather than a long-term drying up of the river.

Climate Change Implications

Climate change is a significant concern, as it could worsen the frequency and severity of droughts. However, the tidal nature of the River Thames ensures that parts of the city experiencing lower water levels due to drought would not be completely devoid of water. The polar ice caps would be the first to melt due to global warming, meaning the river's tidal sections would still have water in them.

Conclusion

The absence of visible water under London Bridge is a result of its design and not a reflection of the river's ability to sustain a constant flow. The River Thames is tidal, and even during severe droughts, the majority of the river retains its water. Londoners and visitors alike can rest assured that, barring exceptional circumstances, the River Thames will remain a flowing body of water, fostering the city's rich history and beauty.

FAQs

Q: Why does water disappear under London Bridge?
A: The current London Bridge is a fixed structure built for vehicular traffic. Without the need for a flowing waterway, there is no visible water beneath it.

Q: Is the River Thames running dry?
A: The majority of the Thames is tidal, meaning it will always have water, even during periods of drought. Tidal influence ensures water availability beneath the bridges.

Q: What happens during severe droughts? A: During severe droughts, some areas of the Thames may exhibit lower water levels, but the tidal sections will always remain water-filled, securing the river's function and aesthetic.