Notting Hill Gate underground station

Marianne von Werther's detailed watercolour documents the redevelopment of Notting Hill Gate during the 1950s. This view shows Notting Hill underground station mid-reconstruction.

Workers are depicted widening the road outside the station, which is fenced off. While heavy machinery blocks the entrance to Pembridge Gardens, the street is busy with both pedestrians and vehicles. Recognisable businesses, such as a J. Lyons & Co. cafe and the Devonshire Arms, can be seen next to the station.

The roadworks were designed to relieve serious traffic congestion in the area. A busy junction at Pembridge Road and Kensington Church Street accentuated the problems caused by Notting Hill Gate's narrow High Street. The redevelopment scheme included residential and commercial development.