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Loading a lorry JLP01_01_005_35
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Historic England
Loading a lorry JLP01_01_005_35
FILTON AIRFIELD, SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE. A dragline excavator depositing material from a bucket into a flatbed van during the construction of a new runway at Filton Airfield.
Laing extended the runway westwards at Filton Airfield to accommodate the Bristol Brabazon airliner, which was being built at the airfield. Work began in July 1946 on the new runway, which was 2, 725 yards long and 100 yards wide. Almost 750, 000 cubic yards of excavations, up to a depth of 14 foot, was involved in preparing the site for the runway. The work required the requisitioning and removal of Charlton village and a temporary flying strip was laid, for use while the new runway was under construction
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 24350637
© Historic England Archive
1940s Airfield Construction Excavator Truck Workmen
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a significant moment in the construction of a new runway at Filton Airfield. The image showcases a dragline excavator diligently depositing material from its bucket into a flatbed van, while workmen oversee the operation. The year is 1946, and the Bristol Aeroplane Company, driven by their ambitious project to build the Bristol Brabazon airliner, extended the runway westwards. The magnitude of this undertaking becomes apparent as we learn that almost 750,000 cubic yards of excavations were required to prepare the site for the expansive 2,725-yard long and 100-yard wide runway. To accommodate this massive task, Charlton village was requisitioned and removed entirely. As an interim measure during construction, a temporary flying strip was laid nearby. Intriguingly captured in this photograph is not only the sheer scale of earth-moving machinery but also the muddy conditions that accompanied such extensive groundwork. It serves as a testament to both human ingenuity and determination in overcoming challenges faced during large-scale infrastructure projects. This historic image offers us a glimpse into an era when progress took flight amidst post-war reconstruction efforts. It stands as a reminder of how innovation can shape landscapes while honoring those who labored tirelessly behind-the-scenes to make it all possible.
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