Following competition from other ports, in 1802 William Jessop proposed installing a dam and lock at Hotwells to create the harbour.

The scheme included the construction of the Cumberland Basin, a large wide stretch of the harbour in Hotwells where the Quay walls and bollards have listed building status.

[1][2] The new scheme required a way to equalise the levels inside and outside the Dock for the passage of vessels to and from the Avon, and bridges to cross the water.

[9] These were of centre-pivot construction, but were highly asymmetrical, the outboard side being nearly three times longer than the landward, balanced by large cast iron counterweights.

[13] The new Plimsoll Bridge, completed in 1965, utilises a similar electro-hydraulic system using oil at a pressure of 4,480 psi (309 bar).

The elevated road network built in the 1960s which forms the majority of land at the Cumberland Basin is nearing the end of its intended lifespan.

[19] In August 2019, a public consultation began seeking local residents' views on the area's future, including new bridges and housing options.

[20] In 2021, Bristol City Council announced a six-month period of community engagement into the area, in order to develop a vision for its future transformation.