Locomotors Estate, Mitcham
| Area | Mitcham |
|---|---|
| Picture Reference | Mit_Buildings_54-1 |
| Original Format | Photo |
| Notes / History | The Locomotors site is now better known as the Watermeads Estate. During the early 20th century part of the site was occupied by the Crick and Sharp film company; described by some film historians as the MGM of their day. During the Great War the film studios were acquired by Hovis & Co and then by Locomotors, a firm specialising in the manufacture of motor vehicles. In 1973 the firm relocated to Andover and Merton Council purchased the vast industrial site with a view to creating municipal housing. Plans were produced for high density low rise estate based on the design at Pollards Hill. During the next two years developers set about constructing low rise housing at a cost of £18,881 per section. However, fewer dwellings could be built because the area the estate was being built on was prone to flooding and a substantial amount of work was required to alleviate the risk of flooding. |
