The Gasholder No.1 – the wrought-iron structure that dominates the skyline at Surrey County Cricket Club’s Oval ground in London, UK – has been granted Grade II status.
Built in 1847, the structure has become synonymous with the English cricket club’s home ground – the Victorian gasholder has overseen every test match ever played at the Oval, as well as the first ever FA Cup Final and the England national soccer and rugby union teams’ first home international matches.
Gasholder No.1 was the world’s largest when first built. It was rebuilt in 1879, a year ahead of the first test match held at the Oval.
“It’s impossible to imagine The Oval without being over looked by the gasholder,” said Surrey CCC chairman, Richard Thompson. “Its presence in Kennington is almost the guardian of our history and, whatever its future may hold, it is great news that it will remain intact as our most famous neighbor.”
“A lot of cricket fans will recognize this structure which provides an iconic backdrop to a world-famous cricket ground,” added UK heritage minister, David Evennett. “It is also an important part of London’s Victorian history which is why I’m very pleased it will be protected for years to come.”
March 4, 2016
