Story of Wandsworth
The 1920s and 1930s
A rest period at Springwell House
School, 1920s
Open-air schools, such as this one
near Clapham Common, were
designed for children suffering from
tuberculosis
After the First World War there was a severe housing shortage. Local councils were given government subsidy to build new houses and flats. Wandsworth's Housing committee celebrated the building of its 1,000th house in 1927. Slums were cleared in Wandsworth and Battersea and modern homes, equipped with gas and electricity, were put up. Women found housework and cooking easier and many had bathrooms for the first time.
There was fresh concern over the health of the nation's citizens, especially children. New maternity hospitals and health clinics opened in the area, particularly to treat diphtheria and tuberculosis.
Battersea Power Station,
late 1930s
The first part of the power
station was built between
1929 and 1935
In the post-war years people faced food and fuel shortages, as well as unemployment. The new popular entertainments offered by cinema, dance halls and greyhound racing helped people forget their troubles. Workers were given paid holidays for the first time and enjoyed trips to the seaside. People were increasingly interested in health and fitness and new sports facilities were provided.
There were many modern building developments in the Borough such as the Municipal Offices in Wandsworth. New roads were constructed and the London Underground was extended, with stylish stations being built at Tooting and Balham.
