Lost Shepherd's Bush - Classicism On The Uxbridge Road

Uxbridge Road c1978. Photo: Myles Hewitt

A reader recently contacted us for help to identify the classical-style building with columns on the left in this photo.

The picture came to light during a clear-out of old photos.  On the back of the photo he had written: "Uxbridge Road Winter 1978".

The building looks to be opposite the big BT Telephone Exchange on the south side of the street.

It appears to have been built on the site of the curvy block of flats that is there now.  Most likely it was a non-conformist church.  The church looks to have been made to last, built of stone, and no doubt its parishioners thought it would stand forever.

Looking at the Uxbridge Road today, with its shabby shopfronts and indifferent architecture, it is sad to reflect on how many fine buildings have been lost.  Not unlike Wood Lane, which was once home to one of London's finest attractions, the Great White City.

If anyone has any information about the demolished church, we'd be glad to hear from you!

----Alex

PS. Since this was first posted, another reader has sent us the excellent photo below, from the early 1960s.

Uxbridge Road c. early 1960s. Photo: Geraldine Moyle