Abstract
A bridge across the river Thames has existed at London for 1000 years and possibly more. The early bridges were built on timber piles but these were subject to constant erosion. In 1176 Peter of Colechurch built a masonry bridge on piers which rested on starlings and this lasted through various vicissitudes for over 600 years. Constant maintenance of the foundations was required and in 1831 this was eventually replaced by Rennie's famous bridge which lasted for 140 years. This bridge was founded on a timber grillage which rested on timber piles. Immediately after it was completed it was carefully examined by three independent engineers, relative levels were taken and the same points on the piers were re-levelled after 30 years and again after 130 years. Due to high applied stresses, continuing secondary compression of the clay took place and the resulting differential settlement eventually led to the bridge being replaced. Rennie's bridge was rebuilt in Arizona in 1973.
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