INDEPENDENT of all the preceding arrangements for the supply, and to promote the comfort of London, there are the numerous WATER-WORKS In various parts of the metropolis that merit attention and praise. This system of accommodation is now brought to the highest state of perfection. Besides the celebrated New River, brought to London by Sir Hugh Middleton; there are the South London Water-works, and East London Water-works, (projected by Mr. Ralph Dodd.,) the West Middlesex and the Kent Water-works, (projected by Mr. Robert Dodd) &c. The commencement of these several works at first much inconvenienced London, by the taking up of the pavements in all the streets, to lay down the requisite pipes; but the town has now another evil to guard against, namely, the junction of the water-works companies, by which means there would be monopoly, not competition. This monopoly has already been established in some instances, and has been proved to be burdensome and oppressive in its operations; but parliamentary interference is likely to check, if not eradicate, this evil.
Source: Leigh's New Picture of London. Printed for Samuel Leigh, 18, Strand;
by W. Clowes, Northumberland Court. 1819