Fordbank Road and Ford Lane junction, late August 2025

Off-loading heavy mechanical digger. The operatives displayed great skill in slowly completing the task, inching the machinery down to ground level. A warning of ‘Stand clear’ repeatedly rang out from the vehicle as its lights flashed. Among the problems facing the driver as he was manoeuvring the machine down the ramps was the public – pedestrians, dog-walkers, cyclists, joggers, pram pushers, families making their way down towards the river, and motorists from three directions. The driver stopped and patiently gave them right of way. Another problem was that of avoiding the overhead cables: he avoided them by what seemed like inches although it was said that they were not electric. The officials performed their work with great skill and grace. These photos serve as a reminder of the operation.