Cleckheaton Viaduct
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Visit websiteIn 1892 the LNWR obtained parliamentary poweers to build a second line from Mirfield near Huddersfield to Leeds. This enabled an increase in capacity on a busy stretch of line through Dewsbury to Leeds. This new line ran parallel to the Lancashire & Yorkshire Railway's Spen valley line, on which there was already a station at Cleckheaton. The nature of the terrain caused it to be expensive to build and operate with tunnels and curves and steep gradients.
The line opened in 1904 and at Cleckheaton, since the new station was located on the far side of the valley from the town, it was necessary to facilitate access. In order to connect the station to the town, a station approach road was built on a 119 m long viaduct, supported by steel tressles resting on brick foundations, and with parapets made of stone.
This remarkable structure remains, a monument to Victorian prosperity and confidence.
By road: Off A643 east of Cleckheaton.
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Forgotten Relics - Listed Bridges and Viaducts