Heckmondwike Spen railway cutting November 2008 10 Pictures

Hecknmondwike Spen Station, originally opened on the 1st of October, 1900. It was a small wooden building on a stone flagged platform. The line wasn't really a success, and on the 5th of September 1953, the last passengers disembarked. The line continued until the late 1980's as a single track line for goods only. 1995 saw the track being lifted and finally, last year, the last of the platform disappeared with the building of a new housing estate.
The station, in 1905. No trace remains today.


However remaining are the nine bridges, all within a mile of the station.


With the exception of one, they are all arched.


The railway, as it travelled through the old part of town needed lots of land. They were made to rehouse anyone within a mile of their original house if it was demolished.


There is a 50 yard tunnel here. Today remains of a fire are burning inside. 70 years ago smoke and steam would be a regular sight for the local residents as steam trains rumbled through this cutting.


A water or sewer pipe in the roof of one of the bridges




It's nearly impossible to see any other remnants of this line. However, at the base of one of the bridges is this faded paint work.


I love the sweep of the disused railway. You can never see more than four bridges at a time.


Today the cutting lies forgotten, except to kids and flytippers. There is a cycle path at one end of it. Perhaps there are plans to join that to the new housing estate? Who knows?

Nice one Rich
I'll add these 1981 and 2008 comparison shots too!



There's more history and maps of the line here
http://www.lostrailwayswestyorkshire.co.uk/leeds%20new%20line%203.htm

Nice one Rich, I love that third one down with the four bridges together.

Thanks Muse. You always say nice things! I'm pleased with how they turned out actaully.