The two cabmen’s shelters listed in 2022 join 10 other listed cab shelters in the capital
(Picture: Historic England)Two cabmen’s shelters in London, where taxi drivers could historically rest on the job, are among the sites added to the National Heritage List for England.
The news means several sites in the capital will receive greater protection against future development so “everyone can continue to enjoy them”, according to Historic England.
Among thosegiven special or elevated status are The Christian Science Church in Pinner and London Scottish House in Westminster which have both been awarded Grade II listing.
Cab shelters began appearing as a charity initiative in the late 19th century as a way of helping taxi drivers who would become hungry or thirsty on a shift but could not leave their vehicle unattended. It is thought 61 were built but only 13 are known to survive today.
It is not the first time cab shelters have been given listed status in London, but the announcement on Thursday will extend the Grade II affiliation to shelters at Pont Street and Chelsea Embankment.
Duncan Wilson, chief executive of Historic England, said: “The variety of listings this year illustrates the rich diversity of our shared heritage and the importance of everyday places – from an Edwardian Bank to a London cab shelter, to a 19th century watermill – that make up the fascinating fabric of our past.
“Places like these create distinctiveness and make us proud of where we live. Listing recognises their value so they are protected for the future and everyone can continue to enjoy them.”
He added that Historic England is inviting the public to ‘enrich the list’ by sharing knowledge and pictures of listed places.
The two cabmen’s shelters listed in 2022 join 10 other listed cab shelters in the capital and 240 historic sites across England being added to the list.
London Scottish House in Westminster was built as the drill hall for the London Scottish Regiment, an army unit founded in 1859, with enrolment restricted to men with Scotland connections. It still serves as their headquarters today. It has been given grade II listed status.
In Peterborough Road, Fulham, 29 colourful abstract decorative fibreglass panels by celebrated artist John Piper - one of England’s most eminent 20th-century artists - have also been listed along with the former exhibition building they were designed to adorn.
Also in London, the Church of St Mary in South Ruislip has been listed at Grade II as has Christian Science Church in Pinner.
