Leeds City Centre Railway Viaduct Revitalised

Welcome back to this mini series on the High Lines of the UK. We've arrived in Leeds where we are going to be looking at another former railway viaduct that has been brought back to life as a public space - the Monk Bridge Viaduct. But in terms of former elevated railways being brought back to life we have a few other things to explore.
Starting in Wellington Place, right in the heart of an area of tranformation. Formerly dominated by several viaducts and railways elevated above the streets. This was the scene of Leeds Central railway station and adjoining goods shed. Several railway companies arrived in Leeds across the viaudct we'll feature. You'd hardly know the scene 60 years ago given the landscape these days, but a sole piece of history remains from one of the goods stations. A Grade II listed landmark lifting tower that transported wagons from the viaduct above to the numerous lines also underneath. Saved from demolision, this was one of a number in the area. Its role was to hoist wagons from the higher-level passenger line down to the Great Northern Goods yard at the original Leeds Central railway station. It's now a museum, so pop in and have a marvel, if you're ever in the area.
www.wellington...
We turn our attention to the entrance to the Leeds Central station area. The former viaduct which spanned the River Aire and the Leeds & Liverpool Canal. Stood derelict for decades since the station and lines were abandoned in the 1960s, regeneration around the viaduct has found Monk Bridge take on a new role as the public space between the numerous complexes of city living dwellings. The viaduct is now open to the public as an urban garden. One of the old semaphore signal gantries remains, literally hidden in plain sight.
Before we leave, just by the viaduct is even more fantastic railway history. The old railway roundhouse dates back to 1847 and was built by the Leeds and Thirsk Railway. It fell out of use in the early 1900s as the engines out grew the shed. You'll also find a half-roundhouse and former turning shops right next door.
Thanks to Dave for the old viaduct pics. Here is a link to Dave's channel / @daveattrill2712
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