Greenwich Peninsula was once home to the largest gas works in Europe; the East Greenwich Gas Works.

Built by the South Metropolitan Gas Company from the 1880s, the site eventually covered 150 acres (three times the size of Grand Central Station, New York), with a river frontage stretching for over a mile.

The discovery of North Sea gas meant that gas production ceased in 1976 and the works fell into decline. In the 21st century the large gas holder has been a striking reminder of the Peninsula’s industrial past, though it is due to be demolished (in 2020). Affectionately nicknamed ‘Jumbo’ by locals, it was the largest gasometer in the world when it was built and even featured in Blur’s music video for ‘Parklife’.