westminster/lambeth bridges

[mjandrews96]

does anybody know how long the bridges of westminster (green) and lambeth (red) have been painted these colours . Thereby replicating the colours of the house of commons and lords respectively. Whose idea was it , also any other information known would be appreciated.

[Octavius]

Pretty much been those colours since the day the current bridges were completed. Lambeth Bridge was traditionally the route of the Monarch to the Palace of Westminster (possibly from the Tower or Hampton Court, by river). Prior to the bridge, this part of the Thames � on parliament side� was the location of the Parliament Steps which led from the river up to the parliament building where the monarch would enter via the Sovereign's entrance (Victoria Tower) then go through the Sovereign's robing room and into the Royal gallery before entering the Chamber of the House of Lords. All the commoners would enter via the clock tower end (Big Ben) and hence use the side which is now at Westminster Bridge � although the main entrance is now on Parliament Square.

[mjandrews96]

thanks octavius
i thought you would come up with an answer, as you've answered a couple of my questions before. I do a London course and my teacher a blue guide was stumped . Again many thanks, mja

[Octavius]

It doesn't, however, explain why Albert Bridge is pink!