The Bridge crossing viewed from South Benfleet
Post Cards of the Benfleet Creek Crossing
On 21st May 1930 work began on a Bridge to replace the ferry from South Benfleet to Canvey Island. A year later on 21st May 1931 the bridge was opened by Col Colvin, the bridge taking on his name.
These Post Cards view the Bridge from South Benfleet looking over the creek to Canvey Island.
Looking over Canvey from Benfleet Downs - note the House Boats that were there until the 70's. Water side farm is in view where the Recycling centre now stands. 'Dauntons' Boat building disappeared in recent years.
Jim Gray
Colvin Bridge and New Road
David Bullock
New Colvin Bridge
David Bullock
Colvin Bridge as seen from Benfleet Downs
David Bullock
The new Underpass - 1963. Prior to this traffic had to travel over the railway crossing. The signal box can still be seen.
David Bullock
The Colvin Bridge - opened 21st May 1931
David Bullock
Looking south east at the 'New' Bridge with the old ferry road vearing right
Jim Gray
Colvin Bridge to Canvey Island
Jim Gray
Thames Barge - Colvin Bridge open - The warning bells used to ring for the barriers
David Bullock
This is probably May 1932 before the opening ceremony as vehicles can be clearly seen still using the old crossing
David Bullock
A bus travels on to Canvey Island
Jim Gray
The Railway Crossing
David Bullock
Colvin Bridge
David Bullock
Comments about this page
How delighted I was to see in the above photograph my Grandfather [Fred Marshall] third from the left wearing his characteristic Trilby hat and his small toolbox by his right foot – he was the electrician who installed the electric motors which drew back the roadway to allow passage for boats. In later years during the second world war he was in the Canvey contingient of the Home Guard, I believe he was a captain – in the attached photo he is in the front row third from the left with other officers of the South Essex company, I’m not sure where the photo was taken – is that the rear of the Admiral Jellicoe in the left background?
I would be interested to find out.
Hi Ian
Delighted with your news!
The property in the backgorund (left) is Waterside Farm – the buildings still being there, now part of CPDC’s recycling centre.
If you have more info on your Grandfather including pictures we would be delighted to add them to the site
Regards
Dave Bullock
Can anyone tell me when the bridge was built please? Im 46 and lived here all my life. I was at a friends bbq in Basildon and they asked when was it built, and i didnt know, so some help please, cheers Jason Taylor.
It was opened on the 21st May 1931
Add a comment about this page