The Bristol Dock Company, 1803 -1848

The Bristol Dock Company was set up in 1803 to finance, carry out and operate the improved harbour which had long been urged.

The company structure and capital reflected the local politics and tensions which had delayed action hitherto, and which continued to handicap its operations over its 45-year life.

It was never popular, and was much criticised in its lifetime and subsequently, but this detailed and fully documented account sets out to show that most if not all its weaknesses arose from the compromises and constraints built into its very foundations.

Now out of print but available below as a free downloadable PDF

About the Author

Peter Malpass was professor of housing and urban studies at the University of the West of England. He has written extensively on housing and housing policy, and organised an exhibition in association with Bristol City Council in 2005 marking 100 years of council housing in Bristol.