British government protects gasholder backdrop at The Oval

British government protects gasholder backdrop at The Oval

Published Mar. 3, 2016 9:09 a.m. ET

LONDON (AP) The distinctive backdrop to some of cricket's greatest occasions is being preserved by the British government.

The gasholder next to The Oval cricket ground in south London has been given a Grade II listed status.

The structure was first constructed in 1847 and was rebuilt in 1877-79 ahead of the first test match in England in 1880.

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Gasholder No. 1 is an early example of using wrought-iron to construct the frame which allows it to double its capacity.

Heritage minister David Evennett says it's an ''important part of London's Victorian history, which is why I'm very pleased it will be protected for years to come.''

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