Bridlington’s utility networks appeared in the order, gas, water, and then electricity during Victoria’s reign. Member Rick Hudson looked at their progress from the invention of the technologies up to the mid 1900’s using a range of contemporary images.
The first gas works were established where Swindon Street is now in 1833 to satisfy the desire to light the streets. Rick explained how the works and gas uses changed over time. The later Quay Road gas works was demolished when natural gas arrived.
The first water well pumping station at the bottom of Mill Lane was brought into action in 1865 and, as hoped for, successfully reduced the frequent outbreaks of disease. The station at the top of Mill Lane was constructed in 1872 and was initially powered by a windmill.
Rick described Bridlington’s first electricity generating station in what is now Victoria Mills off Manor Street. This powered lights on the Princes Parade for the first time on 19th June 1890. The municipal Brett Street power station followed in 1905 but became redundant in 1932 when Bridlington was connected to the national grid.
The vote of thanks was given by Maureen Bell.