1867 Work began on constructing the Improvement Walls at Limehouse Basin, connecting to the Regents Canal and building an entrance lock including erection of new wharves, warehouses, and sheds, for landing and storing goods. Mr Edwin Thomas, M.I.C.E . was the engineer-in-chief, and the resident engineer Mr John Blackbourn
The wrought iron gates, swing bridge, cranes, sluices and other machinery were designed and constructed by Sir William Armstrong.
Contrary to normal practice, the company carried out the work themselves.