See how Balham High Street London changed between 1940 and 2018. Drag the slider to compare the historic photograph with the modern view.
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In 1856, the opening of Balham railway station marked a pivotal moment in the area's development, transforming it from a rural village into a bustling suburb. This surge in urbanisation led to the construction of Victorian and Edwardian terraces, many of which still line the streets today. (balham.org)
During World War II, on 14 October 1940, Balham High Road was severely damaged when a 1,400 kg bomb exploded above the northern end of the Underground station, creating a large crater into which an out-of-service bus then crashed. The blast ruptured water and gas mains, flooding the station and resulting in the deaths of approximately 64 people who had sought shelter there. (thesecondworldwar.org)
In the post-war years, Balham High Road underwent significant redevelopment. The 1930s Art Deco apartment complex, Du Cane Court, was completed in 1937, offering 677 flats and becoming a sought-after residence for many music hall stars in the 1940s. (theundergroundmap.com) The area also saw the rise of independent shops, cafés, and a strong sense of community, blending village charm with cosmopolitan style. (balham.org)
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