Amazing! Beautiful! Manchester could benefit from turning that structure into an urban park like NYC did with the High Line. Private funds could be sought for the project.
Saving this for tomorrow night. Thirty years ago I'd be at The Venue or Hacienda on a weekend. Now my Friday night consists of a tub of my favourite ice cream and Martin's videos.....oh how times have changed.
And just underneath one of the arches of that viaduct is where I used to sleep when I was homeless. Thanks Martin fantastic video I have always like that place even when I was kipping down there I found it truly fascinating
A good tip not to raise suspicion, wear a hi-vis vest and white helmet, also add a clip board, anyone looking will think you are working and not call anyone.
Hi-Viz Camouflage. Logically, it sounds so wrong, because it is hi-viz and I am an ex-serviceman and the idea is to remain hidden. However, you are totally correct, it too blends in very with the surrounds, just different surrounds to what you would expect camouflage is normally used for.
a bridge in California was having routine maintenance when a thief used the hard hat and vest ploy to steal an air compressor .the man drove up to the compressor and hitched it to his truck ,a highway patrolman drove up as this was going on and actually helped the thief hitch the compressor to the truck, if nothing else the thief had nerves of steel.
As a young tear away doing graffiti around nw London I’ve luckily got to explore loads of places like this. Always had the feeling of connection to the men that made it,whether it was a brick in a tunnel or a bit of a bridge. I love my country’s historical stuff like this. Thanks.
I walked around the canal area and was impressed by the work which had gone into building these arches and canals. I saw the Giant's Basin and wondered where all that water was going. I also went up those new steel steps. On this line out from Manchester on the left you can still see the Hotspur Press sign on the building.
Fascinating Martin, I live near here and walk everyday to work under this viaduct and love its magnificence. You've brought it's history to light for me. Thanks.
I have done both the bridgewater canal by narrow boat and Manchester to Southport by railway and both give fascinating views of the multi layered structures, going along seeing railway lines at all sorts of levels, then the winding canals interspersed with many layers of roads. Pevsner taught me to look up, but you showed me to look everywhere else. You are brilliant!
This is incredible. It's a sobering thought that this is probably the only footage that anyone will ever see of this amazing place. Again, thanks for posting.
Your filming, editing, sound and music are becoming professional quality. Your enthusiasm for history and the work that you put into these programs really shows. I was born in Manch. but I don’t know the city as my parents moved away when I was still young. Fascinating history and thank you for sharing it. I love the decaying grandeur of old infrastructure. 👍
Hello Martin what an excellent video. Earlier on this year I had to get a train from Newton-le-Willows to Manchester Piccadilly and was amazed at all the railway architecture that I saw as the train slowed down entering the city. It was truly stunning and I'm always in awe of how these people designed and built these megastructures so long ago without modern construction machinery. Last year I went for a good walk in Cumbria to the remote site where the mighty Belah Viaduct once stood. Only the abutments and the rotting signal box remain from an era long gone.
Its up by Kirkby Stephen in Cumbria in quite a remote area, the old trackbed leading to it from the road is privately owned so I got to it by parking in Barras then a nice hike up to it. The viaduct has gone now but the big stone abutments at each end of the valley are impressive as well as the old signal box that is rotting away year by year. You can get good moody pics of the signal box as the landscape and weather can be bleak up there. www.forgottenrelics.co.uk/bridges/belah.html
That's an impressive structure. I was doing stress analysis in my head. The designer has managed to get a lot of extra strength while fiddling it into a cramped space. BTW if you are wearing a reflector jacket, name badge and bump hat you can get away with going anywhere.
There are drains on the bed of the bridge, this caused residue to Funnel down through rain erosion and create a dip! It was dark so I thought it was a hole and I was going to drop all the way to the road below! Brown trouser moment that, but it was perfectly safe. Ahh, memories of a freezing cold night! Well done on another great video!
The opening night scenes in this video just blow me away. It feels like the beginning of a dystopian science fiction movie. High marks for your camera work and composition.
My what a video,as a young BR fireman I'd get of the MSJA TRAIN at deansgate n Knott mill,and walk over to Victoria,I can still remember looking in awe at that structure,this brought it all back ,many thanks guys 👍
Great video Martin! This part of Manchester's heritage should be cherished and turned into a city centre park for all to enjoy! Imagine having a walk along there and the view!
Hi Martin, yet another fantastic video, packed as usual with info, I love the area and always fancied getting up and looking around this railway icon, thanks for giving me the opportunity to see what it looks like now in it's old age. Keep the videos coming :-) Guy.
Very Nice look from on top of viaduct at old buildings surrounding the canal and railways . Masonary and steel structures are wonderful . Love how it all comes together historically as well .
Excellent again Martin.....the bridge and the surrounding area was my growing up landscape......we used to mess about on the bridge's and you could walk straight into the disused central station.
Me and my mates would climb under the platforms that were outside the station to get old beer bottles....and I remember the big turn table for the trains on the approche to the station to the right...we also went inside the big clock on the front of the station up a stair way at the side of the offices .....yes happy days.
well done martin on excellent describing the history of the castle field viaduct . in August of last year 2019 I travelled on the line that goes to Altrincham via dean gates and castle field. line. such a superb city love your videos.
Just rewatching this fascinating documentary about the Castlefield Viaduct which captured my imagination previously, and you mentioned James Brindley, whom I am doing some research on at the moment! I am also researching information about his Harecastle Tunnel which is very close to where I live - he also lived at a hall just up the road from me, which is where he died in 1772 and is buried at Newchapel's St James Church. I have visited his grave several times as I am a true taphophile! Thank you for another terrific video!
I love viaducts ❤ I'm slowly making my way watching your videos...you are truly amazing! Your passion shines through, so interesting! Keep up the great work! Glad the ladder held up 😊...take really good care...
Im old enough to remember all these days of heavy industry and my job as an industrial electrician allowed me to travel round Liverpool, Manchester and Cheshire. Some of my favourite memories are of the old ICI factories in Cheshire now sadly demolished.
Martin my thanks for those two professional features on the Ordsall Chord and the Castlefield Viaduct. When the contractors were in removing the footbridge I think they discovered some cattle-pens too on the Mcr side. I've wondered why Metrolink because they have expanded their services haven't used the obvious tracked alongside, the westernmost viaduct but thanks to you I now know, much obliged. It is too important to leave this to disibtegrate and should give it the remedial treatment and TLC that's it's due, the views alone despite it's history make it a must. Apparently just above Collier Street (Roman Fort) was the junction for trains into Central and into the Goods Complex. The Midland built three similar termini. St. Pancras (the biggest unsupported room without pillars in the country at the time) Mcr. Central (the second biggest) and Liverpool Central (now demolished above ground). The Great Northern Railway despite it's warehouse was a rarity in Mcr. It's chiefly a North Eastern railway. It had above, Collier Shed, an engine-shed of It's own. Only small. Central's main shed was Trafford Park with extensive carriage sidings at Cornbrook down to Throstle's Nest Tunnel, now filled in. Metrolink chose to fill it in and go on a steep alignment instead under the national network line. The line under Throstles Nest went to Chorlton which was a junction the Midland line going to Didsbury and Cheadle Heath and on towards St. Pancras via Miller's Dale in the Peak District. The other line was a Great Central (later L.N.E.R) line which went via Fallowfield (Station was standing until recently?) now a cycle-track and via Hadfield to Woodhead. After the conversion of Mcr. Central into the convention centre the Cheshire Lines Committee warehouses were demolished, they lay as you can see on your photo between Central and the Great Northern Railway Warehouse. Goods did not enter at ground level but on a stage supported by cast iron columns and girders. There was an incline at one side to allow access down to ground level at Watson Street. The rail yard was mainly at a level considerably higher than street. Under the reconstruction into a convention centre and car-park this good yards was dismantled and the supporting cast-iron works. It was found to be be of particularly high grade metal when cut up and apparently was sent by ship to Africa. That book you have on Mcr's underground rivers has a very good, I don't if you've got it, companion. Whereas that deals with things mainly underground this book is mainly above. It's called Manchester (Pevsner Archtiectual Guides) by Clare Hartwell. Un-putdownable. Mcr has a legacy of fine buildings and warehouses the latter second to none (Princess Street and Whitworth Street e.g.). How many people look up to see the terracotta work? If you manage to get a copy you will see the drawing of the plan to culvert the Irwell known as the City of Manchester Plan 1945. You will also see the article on Oxford Road Station which is fascinating by itself for the use of wood. An inverted prow of three pre-fabricated shells on laminated beams which was ground-breaking technology. Regards, Mark.
This is amazing - thanks for posting, Mark (I'm going to get the book now! *Martin, you've cost me a fortune in books since I've found your Channel - ha-ha!). I travelled to Oxford Road station for many years in the 1990s and it was covered in scaffolding and an absolute mess - I understood there was a massive problem to solve with it's restoration that was also going to have a massive bill; something to do with the type of wood if I remember correctly. I think it stood under scaffold all that time while they even debated whether or not to demolish it even; but because of its architectural status they thankfully eventually restored it. Don't know if I've dreamt all that though!
Mate, I think I'm getting addicted to your historic exploring. I'm in Brisbane Australia and there ain't much of this sort of interesting heritage here. Keep up your excellent work thanks.
Being in Canada, I really know nothing about Manchester other than your football clubs, (sorry, Everton fan) and The Smith's, but what an amazing place! Thank you!
Fascinating stuff, I learned a lot. I've photographed that viaduct many times. I rode on steam trains as a child but mainly from Exchange Station, not Central. The viaduct should be renovated and turned into a linear way and park, like the High Line in New York. I was glad of the opportunity to see what it looks like on the viaduct, though i wouldn't risk it myself! I walked on it in the 80s before Metrolink when there was still open access. The 3D model was great too and the details of the opening. Now I won't be able to stop wondering where that ceremonial rivet is!
Martin, you are getting too good. Just watched Castlefield video. You excelled in the explanation. I remember going over that bridge into Mc/r Central train station as a kid in the 50's & early 60's on the train, also getting the train from Oxford Road to Warwick Road to watch United play home games, running alongside Cheshire Lines track. Keep them coming buds. Ken In Canada.
Another Martin and Connor masterpiece!! I obviously love your work ,and I have wondered about this beautiful structure. Cannot wait to someday meet you guys,these videos appeal to those of us loving this place. Hi Connor.
Ay up Martin- great video as ever! It seems as though that viaduct really ought to be transformed into one of these raised parks or green spaces to be enjoyed by anyone. Keep up your good work mate👍🏻 🇪🇪
I believe a small group have been trying to do that. The first attempt failed and I believe they made a second attempt, but it's gone very quite on this and looks like this has also failed. Working in Castlefield I see a lot of tourists and think what a great addition this would be. After serving Manchester well for the majority of it's life and being grade 2 listed, it's shameful for it to be left like this.
Seem to remember a park similar to 'high line' was proposed for this a few years back, anyway another absolute banger of a video. You have an incredible eye for detail and everything is diligently researched, the cinematic stuff is brilliant too.
They’ve just announced that this place will be turned into a garden next year…….nice to see it bought back into use. They need to look after this place, it’s one of my favourite structures in Manchester, loved it since I was a young boy.
Another excellent informative and interesting video Martin, thanks for taking the time out to risk life n limb to show us the otherwise unseeable. Glad the Hi Vis stazi didn't show up. Keep up the excellent work. Look forward to the next one. Steve.
Great area for photography, this was the first place I ventured when I bought my dslr. I really need to go at different times of the day though. Thanks once again Martin, another great and interesting vlog
When i was a youngster, early 80's, i walked down the tracks behind the grand central station, can't remember how far i got, but it was so impressive, regardless of how neglected it was, i was still overawed. i then spent 2 weeks work experience working at the Midland in 1985, watching the old girl develop into the G-Mex, good times!
I would have love to have walked it back then. Yes I was lucky enough to have a look at Central station just before it became G mex 1985 wow !!! Good times
I noticed on a recent visit that the shrubbery at the GMex end of the viaduct had been cleared and wondered what was afoot, maybe landscaping it and opening it up. Great vlog again Martin.
Another great video Martin, fascinating that area of Manchester, will have to make a day just to explore it, hard to get your headround the Medlock runs under the canal, got to love the engineering and vision of the builders, A lot higher as well the viaduct when your up there, your mate had bottle for the top shot ! Keep em coming, much appreciated.
Absolutely awesome structure! Can’t think of any others like this where it’s a steel structure with steel ‘turrets’! Maybe there were others from the same architect that have been dismantled.
Great video Martin....those of us ...in the know used to get up there when gigs were on in the arena when it was full for the free gigs...remember them? Particularly remember seeing 808 state and clint boon there.....danced on top of the fire boat one year....happy days!
Thanks for sharing more great pictures and history! What a beautiful Victorian bridge it is! It needs a coat of rust paint and too bad they could not use the old right of way as part of a trail system or some other useful purpose!
Well, what can I say. Just finished watching your entire video catalogue; all 93 of them, to date. Plus the Live Stream of course, after the event. Speaking of which, I just love those Choux Pastry Custard Buns from M & S...they really are to die for !! Anyway, just a note so compliment you on your stunning work over the last 2 years. It's great fun and of great interest. Just a thought, looking at your subscriber numbers, 2000+. If we all had a whip round of 50p (10 bob) a head you could replace that drone you so tragically lost in the R.Irwell. I doubt your followers would object to such a Crowd Funding plan. Thanks again for all your work Martin. Will look forward to all your future videos.
Hello Sir I commend you on watching all the video's thank you. Ive done 101 so far but a few were bad so made private. The live stream was fun but maybe just on my channel next time. The Buns amazing but one is not enough. I'll sort a drone soon hopefully but thank you for the kind offer. But seriously thank you very much for your comment and for watching the video's 👍🏼
Hi Martin, great informative video again, really enjoyed this one, such a impressive structure. I was in Manchester yesterday after a visit to Science and Tech museum, went exploring some of your great pubs, Britons Protection and City arms to name a couple. You have a great city only a hour away from Sheffield on the train, all the best Pat
Hello Pat, bloody hell wish I had known, we could of met up. Probably nearly bumped into you as well. Let me know if you pop over again. Or if you want a tour of the bridge. Are you planning any water excursions yourself. You are what basically influenced me on my Medlock series 👍🏼
@@MartinZero Martin we were so impressed by the way your pubs had stayed in there original state, always been a favourite of ours for a drink. We also commented on all your old brick buildings, beautiful they were, I sorry to say that Sheffield looks a bit shabby, whether it's due to our city centre being bombed in the blog and that rebuilt it with concrete which looks really poor now, we will be back. I,ve just been filming a railway tunnel explore just got to edit it and hopefully have it on next week. I spent ages in the tunnel just experimenting with different photo tequniques, you keep doing what you do, really interesting and I,am learning about Manchester all the time, thanks Pat
Fascinating. The bridge has always intrigued me. I assumed it closed when Central closed. That was 1969, I think. I've definitely seen pics of trains in Central in 1968. London Road station was rebuilt with more capacity and renamed Piccadilly, and therefore Central was made redundant. I've seen that overflow by the YHA on Potato Wharf. If you are in the YHA it sounds like you're by a river, especially with the geese honking; very rural indeed! The overflow seems to come out across the road where you can look over a wall to two low arches, like a 'Y' junction, one clearly being a river, the other which I assumed was the culvert from the overflow.
The terrible part is the way they have left the bridge to rust .NEGLECT on a huge scale and Manchester should be ashamed but they say the railways are responsible -Listed buildings sadly mean nothing to Manchester Council .Great video Martin *
Deserves and by health safety and heaven knows what else should get ! .We are talking unreal types here who will leave until a danger than demolish ( quoting ''for the good of the people' ) BS ..For them to tick the list that says another listed structure has been got rid of and money earned .As a UK tax payer I believe they are as corrupt as they come .Think Genoa ..then think that ...
As one who lived there and was very active in such petitions I left to come here . Although I pay tax to UK each month I have no voting rights there and have found out these are now ignored When there last 2017 a boat was set on fure and left The result oil and debris .The boat wreckage is still there The owner dead ! I still have all the fob off emails They would love the chance to destroy listed and claim central government don't allow the money .As Matins fabulous videos show lots goes AWOL n Manchester .
Nothing to do with the council. The viaduct, along with lots of other redundant railway infrastructure which cannot be sold now belongs to the government, specifically the department for transport. As Martin says, the viaduct can’t be demolished but it would also cost millions to refurbish. The council do not have this kind of money to spend on assets which they don’t even own. Contrary to popular belief, maintenance is occasionally performed on it to try and slow down its deterioration.
Warriors come out to play ! Really interesting how the trains went into manchester back in the day.keep em coming Martin.👍 P's cracking sunday dinner in the wharf down there mate.
Just came across this vid, dunno how I missed it. Loving the steam punk reference Martin, your spot on about that. Brilliant video very informative as always. Take care from Julie in Burnley..x
I could see your apprehension whilst climbing that ladder. Im the same. My job involves climbing scaffolding periodically. Have to swallow my fear and get up there lol. Great vid.
Great video, very informative, showing more of Manchester's railway/industrial heritage, how can you not be impressed stay safe you guys looking forwards to more from you. How on earth did you get 11 thumbs down?!!!
Thanks for that Martin. Have always really wanted to see the track bed up there. Am going to start releasing some videos I did 1989/1990 of Crewe and Manchester Piccadilly soon. I'll be dedicating the diesels at Crewe - class 31s 20s 47s etc to you. Tony.
Great video Martin. always wanted a look on Castlefield viaduct but think i'd bottle it!. I wonder if the ladder was to access an overhanging signal gantry of some sort.
I remember going in to Central station in the mid 70s when all the platforms were still there. I watched Tim and Pru filming their series on canals at Castlefields in the Summer.
@@MartinZero My dad used to park his car at Central Station when I was a child and I loved the arched roof even then; I remember the platforms being there too and also being amazed how large it was when they were gone. But it did freak me out (even now!) because of its links with the Moors Murders. Central Station Left Luggage lockers was where the Police found the suitcase with all the information on the murders that Brady/Hindley had stored there. I was at a Manchester Xmas Party there a couple of years ago (which was amazing from the station architecture perspective; forget the party!) but seeing the Left Luggage signs still gave me chills. Central Station was also where Brady picked up Edward Evans to later murder him, so it's always had a very tragic feel to it for me. Another fantastic video and I've always loved Castlefield viaduct - hope they fix it/regenerate it soon.
The second you mentioned, when quoting that paragraph, the copper rivet, I thought I'd love to find out where it is. Cue nine mins in and you say exactly the same! Lol, glad I'm not the only one to think this way!!!
@@MartinZero If ever you do search for the copper rivet Martin, a magnet will be the easiest way of identifying those that aren't copper under the paint. It could ...if you didn't already know save you hours. It's also likely to be not too high - I'd guess perhaps at about waist height). It's doubtful if it would have been used where structural strength might have been compromised,
That is a fantastic idea and probably so simple that someone is bound to say that it's impossible ! I can already see the mountains of risk assessments and all the other associated paperwork it would generate. The final paragraph is almost certainly likely to be " Victorian masterpiece bridge now deemed to be beyond repair due to constant risk assessment delays" I suppose "listed structures" could be dealt with in the same way. No chance of ever demolishing it but simply "sit back and wait until it collapses into a mountain of brickwork and scrap metal" and there is room for another housing development !
The Viaduct opened 1893, closed to traffic 1963
Just to be pedantic, it actually closed on 5th May 1969. I'm sad like that...
Amazing! Beautiful! Manchester could benefit from turning that structure into an urban park like NYC did with the High Line. Private funds could be sought for the project.
Saving this for tomorrow night. Thirty years ago I'd be at The Venue or Hacienda on a weekend. Now my Friday night consists of a tub of my favourite ice cream and Martin's videos.....oh how times have changed.
My Video's Rival The Hac 😀😆😂
Boardwalk for me...
couple of Doves would get you off the Sofa Mel ;-)
And just underneath one of the arches of that viaduct is where I used to sleep when I was homeless. Thanks Martin fantastic video I have always like that place even when I was kipping down there I found it truly fascinating
A good tip not to raise suspicion, wear a hi-vis vest and white helmet, also add a clip board, anyone looking will think you are working and not call anyone.
True, we probably should of done that. Good idea for the future Tim, Thanks
they see the vest hard hat and clipboard and their mind just doesn't see anything. you would be part of the background. melt in.
Hi-Viz Camouflage. Logically, it sounds so wrong, because it is hi-viz and I am an ex-serviceman and the idea is to remain hidden. However, you are totally correct, it too blends in very with the surrounds, just different surrounds to what you would expect camouflage is normally used for.
Mark Anthony Yep I need to sort one out
a bridge in California was having routine maintenance when a thief used the hard hat and vest ploy to steal an air compressor .the man drove up to the compressor and hitched it to his truck ,a highway patrolman drove up as this was going on and actually helped the thief hitch the compressor to the truck, if nothing else the thief had nerves of steel.
The filming at the beginning was exceptional. Really blew me away and I knew I was in for a great historical video. You never let me down. Magical .
Thank you Dave. A bit of night filming in Castlefield 👍
As a young tear away doing graffiti around nw London I’ve luckily got to explore loads of places like this.
Always had the feeling of connection to the men that made it,whether it was a brick in a tunnel or a bit of a bridge.
I love my country’s historical stuff like this.
Thanks.
Have been passed them on a canal boat and was blown away by the scale of it.
Cool video, thanks for showing us!
my grandad was a railway man,moved from darby to manchester,started work at 12 years old
loved the railway, thnks gain martin, beryl from canada
I walked around the canal area and was impressed by the work which had gone into building these arches and canals. I saw the Giant's Basin and wondered where all that water was going. I also went up those new steel steps. On this line out from Manchester on the left you can still see the Hotspur Press sign on the building.
Fascinating Martin, I live near here and walk everyday to work under this viaduct and love its magnificence. You've brought it's history to light for me. Thanks.
Hi Tony thank you, Nice area to live. Magnificent is the word 👌
I have done both the bridgewater canal by narrow boat and Manchester to Southport by railway and both give fascinating views of the multi layered structures, going along seeing railway lines at all sorts of levels, then the winding canals interspersed with many layers of roads. Pevsner taught me to look up, but you showed me to look everywhere else. You are brilliant!
Thank you Frank, very much
This is incredible. It's a sobering thought that this is probably the only footage that anyone will ever see of this amazing place. Again, thanks for posting.
Thanks Paul
Your filming, editing, sound and music are becoming professional quality. Your enthusiasm for history and the work that you put into these programs really shows.
I was born in Manch. but I don’t know the city as my parents moved away when I was still young. Fascinating history and thank you for sharing it. I love the decaying grandeur of old infrastructure. 👍
Thank you very much. I did enjoy playing with that intro 😃
I couldn't agree more. Outstanding content and astonishing production values. Spot on! New fan here!
Hello Martin what an excellent video.
Earlier on this year I had to get a train from Newton-le-Willows to Manchester Piccadilly and was amazed at all the railway architecture that I saw as the train slowed down entering the city. It was truly stunning and I'm always in awe of how these people designed and built these megastructures so long ago without modern construction machinery. Last year I went for a good walk in Cumbria to the remote site where the mighty Belah Viaduct once stood. Only the abutments and the rotting signal box remain from an era long gone.
Ooh that sounds interesting ? where is it ?
Its up by Kirkby Stephen in Cumbria in quite a remote area, the old trackbed leading to it from the road is privately owned so I got to it by parking in Barras then a nice hike up to it. The viaduct has gone now but the big stone abutments at each end of the valley are impressive as well as the old signal box that is rotting away year by year. You can get good moody pics of the signal box as the landscape and weather can be bleak up there. www.forgottenrelics.co.uk/bridges/belah.html
@@Cowley46 Wow !!!
Another beautiful video Martin. You have a gift!
Thank you Adam
I cannot imagine such a structure where I live. Absolutiy fascinating!!!
Amazing views from the old viaduct , our history is fascinating! Once again Martin and Conner thank you 🙏 x
That's an impressive structure. I was doing stress analysis in my head. The designer has managed to get a lot of extra strength while fiddling it into a cramped space. BTW if you are wearing a reflector jacket, name badge and bump hat you can get away with going anywhere.
I love the Dramatic beginning it really sets the scene.
There are drains on the bed of the bridge, this caused residue to Funnel down through rain erosion and create a dip! It was dark so I thought it was a hole and I was going to drop all the way to the road below! Brown trouser moment that, but it was perfectly safe. Ahh, memories of a freezing cold night! Well done on another great video!
Thanks Nick, sounds fun
The opening night scenes in this video just blow me away. It feels like the beginning of a dystopian science fiction movie. High marks for your camera work and composition.
Thanks I did the music as well 😊👍
Martin just seen they have done the Viaduct. So I came back and rewatched this today. Fantastic.
Thanks and I will have an update on it
@@MartinZero That will be good cheers.
My what a video,as a young BR fireman I'd get of the MSJA TRAIN at deansgate n Knott mill,and walk over to Victoria,I can still remember looking in awe at that structure,this brought it all back ,many thanks guys 👍
Thank you very much glad you enjoyed it 👍
Great video Martin! This part of Manchester's heritage should be cherished and turned into a city centre park for all to enjoy! Imagine having a walk along there and the view!
Yeah I really hope we get it as a Highline like in New York
That intro was absolutely inspired. I was expecting to see rats scuttling around and bats flying into the camera! Very creative.
Thanks Graham
Hi Martin, yet another fantastic video, packed as usual with info, I love the area and always fancied getting up and looking around this railway icon, thanks for giving me the opportunity to see what it looks like now in it's old age. Keep the videos coming :-) Guy.
Hi Guy, thanks very much. It was a privilege to up on the bridge. Looked at it so many times
Very Nice look from on top of viaduct at old buildings surrounding the canal and railways . Masonary and steel structures are wonderful . Love how it all comes together historically as well .
Thanks alot.......... now im obsessed with old architecture. It fascinates me. Great research, great videos.
Excellent again Martin.....the bridge and the surrounding area was my growing up landscape......we used to mess about on the bridge's and you could walk straight into the disused central station.
Hi Paul, I wish I could of done that. I am old enough just managed to see it as a car park before it became G mex.
Me and my mates would climb under the platforms that were outside the station to get old beer bottles....and I remember the big turn table for the trains on the approche to the station to the right...we also went inside the big clock on the front of the station up a stair way at the side of the offices .....yes happy days.
Paul Barnes Great stuff, if only you had your camera !!
Great aerial shot of the building on Whitworth Street that became the yacht showroom and then The Hacienda!
P.S. I hope you don’t mind Martin, but I sent you some links via Messenger, to some New Order remixes that I produced, and thought you might enjoy.
Ok thanks I’ll check them tonight or tomorrow
well done martin on excellent describing the history of the castle field viaduct . in August of last year 2019 I travelled on the line that goes to Altrincham via dean gates and castle field. line. such a superb city love your videos.
Just rewatching this fascinating documentary about the Castlefield Viaduct which captured my imagination previously, and you mentioned James Brindley, whom I am doing some research on at the moment! I am also researching information about his Harecastle Tunnel which is very close to where I live - he also lived at a hall just up the road from me, which is where he died in 1772 and is buried at Newchapel's St James Church. I have visited his grave several times as I am a true taphophile! Thank you for another terrific video!
Thank you very much , where is the place he is buried , like where in the UK
I love viaducts ❤ I'm slowly making my way watching your videos...you are truly amazing! Your passion shines through, so interesting! Keep up the great work! Glad the ladder held up 😊...take really good care...
Thank you 😊
when i 1st saw this place back in 2010 durin the world cup i was astounded by its overwhelming architecture .. keep up the work MZ
Hi Joe, yep you and me both, I am still overwhelmed everytime I go
Im old enough to remember all these days of heavy industry and my job as an industrial electrician allowed me to travel round Liverpool, Manchester and Cheshire. Some of my favourite memories are of the old ICI factories in Cheshire now sadly demolished.
Martin my thanks for those two professional features on the Ordsall Chord and the Castlefield Viaduct. When the contractors were in removing the footbridge I think they discovered some cattle-pens too on the Mcr side. I've wondered why Metrolink because they have expanded their services haven't used the obvious tracked alongside, the westernmost viaduct but thanks to you I now know, much obliged. It is too important to leave this to disibtegrate and should give it the remedial treatment and TLC that's it's due, the views alone despite it's history make it a must.
Apparently just above Collier Street (Roman Fort) was the junction for trains into Central and into the Goods Complex. The Midland built three similar termini. St. Pancras (the biggest unsupported room without pillars in the country at the time) Mcr. Central (the second biggest) and Liverpool Central (now demolished above ground). The Great Northern Railway despite it's warehouse was a rarity in Mcr. It's chiefly a North Eastern railway. It had above, Collier Shed, an engine-shed of It's own. Only small. Central's main shed was Trafford Park with extensive carriage sidings at Cornbrook down to Throstle's Nest Tunnel, now filled in. Metrolink chose to fill it in and go on a steep alignment instead under the national network line. The line under Throstles Nest went to Chorlton which was a junction the Midland line going to Didsbury and Cheadle Heath and on towards St. Pancras via Miller's Dale in the Peak District. The other line was a Great Central (later L.N.E.R) line which went via Fallowfield (Station was standing until recently?) now a cycle-track and via Hadfield to Woodhead.
After the conversion of Mcr. Central into the convention centre the Cheshire Lines Committee warehouses were demolished, they lay as you can see on your photo between Central and the Great Northern Railway Warehouse. Goods did not enter at ground level but on a stage supported by cast iron columns and girders. There was an incline at one side to allow access down to ground level at Watson Street. The rail yard was mainly at a level considerably higher than street. Under the reconstruction into a convention centre and car-park this good yards was dismantled and the supporting cast-iron works. It was found to be be of particularly high grade metal when cut up and apparently was sent by ship to Africa.
That book you have on Mcr's underground rivers has a very good, I don't if you've got it, companion. Whereas that deals with things mainly underground this book is mainly above. It's called Manchester (Pevsner Archtiectual Guides) by Clare Hartwell. Un-putdownable. Mcr has a legacy of fine buildings and warehouses the latter second to none (Princess Street and Whitworth Street e.g.). How many people look up to see the terracotta work? If you manage to get a copy you will see the drawing of the plan to culvert the Irwell known as the City of Manchester Plan 1945.
You will also see the article on Oxford Road Station which is fascinating by itself for the use of wood. An inverted prow of three pre-fabricated shells on laminated beams which was ground-breaking technology.
Regards,
Mark.
This is amazing - thanks for posting, Mark (I'm going to get the book now! *Martin, you've cost me a fortune in books since I've found your Channel - ha-ha!). I travelled to Oxford Road station for many years in the 1990s and it was covered in scaffolding and an absolute mess - I understood there was a massive problem to solve with it's restoration that was also going to have a massive bill; something to do with the type of wood if I remember correctly. I think it stood under scaffold all that time while they even debated whether or not to demolish it even; but because of its architectural status they thankfully eventually restored it. Don't know if I've dreamt all that though!
Cracking video once again 👍 very enjoyable watch, thanks for doing these.
Thank you for these videos!
RAILWAY PORN once again another excellent report and your research is brilliant
Hi Mark. Railway Porn indeed !!!! 😆 Thank you
Mate, I think I'm getting addicted to your historic exploring. I'm in Brisbane Australia and there ain't much of this sort of interesting heritage here. Keep up your excellent work thanks.
Thank you 👍😃
Quite the interesting structure indeed. I am now seriously considering creating an HO scale model of this set up. Awesome.
Let me see it if you do 👍
You should get in touch with the bbc your passion and knowlage shows thorough i am your no 1 fan i mean that
Thank you very much Sir. I have lost a lot of respect for the BBC well the news anyway
@@MartinZero i agree with you on that one but for sure you deserve recognition for what you do
River churnet Thank you very much. Where is the River Churnet and is that where your from ?
@@MartinZero the river churnet is a random small river in Derbyshire i myself am from harrogate originally but now i live in spain
Wow Spain, that sounds nice. Whats the connection with the Churnet ?
Being in Canada, I really know nothing about Manchester other than your football clubs, (sorry, Everton fan) and The Smith's, but what an amazing place! Thank you!
Thanks very much John
Fascinating stuff, I learned a lot. I've photographed that viaduct many times. I rode on steam trains as a child but mainly from Exchange Station, not Central. The viaduct should be renovated and turned into a linear way and park, like the High Line in New York. I was glad of the opportunity to see what it looks like on the viaduct, though i wouldn't risk it myself! I walked on it in the 80s before Metrolink when there was still open access. The 3D model was great too and the details of the opening. Now I won't be able to stop wondering where that ceremonial rivet is!
Hi Aidan, I am the same. I need to find that Rivet !!! Yes be great if they open it as a Highline, in such a vibrant area it would be amazing 👌
The lengths you go to Martin for your public. Love your work matey
Thanks very much Gareth
Martin, you are getting too good. Just watched Castlefield video. You excelled in the explanation. I remember going over that bridge into Mc/r Central train station as a kid in the 50's & early 60's on the train, also getting the train from Oxford Road to Warwick Road to watch United play home games, running alongside Cheshire Lines track. Keep them coming buds. Ken In Canada.
Hi Ken. I only forgot to mention the date it opened, grrr. Thats amazing you travelled over it to Central station. Very envious
I agree - Martin, you have surpassed yourself! More... More... more and more please - before it all gets torn down!
Loving your videos dude. I am from eccles and you have opened my eyes. I didn't realise how fantastic Manchester is.
Hi Jason. Thanks very much. I am the same, with each video I learn a bit more. Many thanks 👍
Fantastic atmospheric videography at the beginning.And the music tied in very nicely too.
Thanks very much, yeah I like a bit of a weird start 😀
Hey Martin, thanks heaps for making these videos, helping me learn heaps about the city my family was named from
Hi Aidan thanks very much, glad your liking them 👍
Another Martin and Connor masterpiece!! I obviously love your work ,and I have wondered about this beautiful structure. Cannot wait to someday meet you guys,these videos appeal to those of us loving this place. Hi Connor.
Hi Andrew, the bridge is truly a brilliant piece of engineering. Connors says hi 👍
Ay up Martin- great video as ever! It seems as though that viaduct really ought to be transformed into one of these raised parks or green spaces to be enjoyed by anyone.
Keep up your good work mate👍🏻
🇪🇪
Yes it should me made into the highline like in New York
That is exactly what I was thinking.
my thoughts exactly.
I believe a small group have been trying to do that. The first attempt failed and I believe they made a second attempt, but it's gone very quite on this and looks like this has also failed. Working in Castlefield I see a lot of tourists and think what a great addition this would be. After serving Manchester well for the majority of it's life and being grade 2 listed, it's shameful for it to be left like this.
dicantria Hello yes I agree. It would be a real asset to the city if this were possible
Could watch these all day
😃Cheers Andrew 👍
Great to see all the interesting railway heritage of Manchester, I will make a visit and find these places..
Thanks Elaine. Hope you enjoy your visit
Seem to remember a park similar to 'high line' was proposed for this a few years back, anyway another absolute banger of a video. You have an incredible eye for detail and everything is diligently researched, the cinematic stuff is brilliant too.
Thanks very much. I would love that bridge to be a Highline type garden 👍🏼😃
Epic intro great filming .... top info mate 👍
They’ve just announced that this place will be turned into a garden next year…….nice to see it bought back into use. They need to look after this place, it’s one of my favourite structures in Manchester, loved it since I was a young boy.
Yeah lets hope it happens
Another excellent informative and interesting video Martin, thanks for taking the time out to risk life n limb to show us the otherwise unseeable. Glad the Hi Vis stazi didn't show up. Keep up the excellent work. Look forward to the next one. Steve.
Hi Stephen, the Hi Viz stasi 😆yeah I kept expecting them at any point. Great up there and thank you 👍
Btw Martin is Lancaster St. in Middleton? and did you ever go back a second time to try n retrieve your drone? Cheers Martin
Lancaster Avenue is in Middleton. I went back and did a video, but after that one attempt I never went back. It is alas Mort !
Wow you’re programs are great. Thanks 🙏
Hi Robert. thanks very much 👍😀
There definitely needs to be a NYC "High Line" treatment done to this landmark.
Great area for photography, this was the first place I ventured when I bought my dslr. I really need to go at different times of the day though. Thanks once again Martin, another great and interesting vlog
Thanks Brian
I always find your videos interesting Martin, thanks for posting.
Great video Martin I remember around 1970 coming home from college on the bus seeing sunken boats in the basin as it was very neglected.
Hi James, yes I must admit things have changed for the better around there. Bridge needs attention though
Great video and what an ace intro that was, love the sounds. Thank you and goodnight
Hello, hope your good, Yeah some nice experimantal sounds. Logic pro 👌
Another great video Martin. I’m a relative newcomer to your videos but I bloody love them, being as I am a Manc exiled now in Suffolk!
Suffolk !! beautiful am sure. Thank you very much, am glad your enjoying the videos
When i was a youngster, early 80's, i walked down the tracks behind the grand central station, can't remember how far i got, but it was so impressive, regardless of how neglected it was, i was still overawed.
i then spent 2 weeks work experience working at the Midland in 1985, watching the old girl develop into the G-Mex, good times!
I would have love to have walked it back then. Yes I was lucky enough to have a look at Central station just before it became G mex 1985 wow !!! Good times
I noticed on a recent visit that the shrubbery at the GMex end of the viaduct had been cleared and wondered what was afoot, maybe landscaping it and opening it up. Great vlog again Martin.
Hi Richard, yes that top end is quite clear and not overgrown. Bottom end is full of weeds and bushes. makes you wonder ? Thank you
Another great video Martin, fascinating that area of Manchester, will have to make a day just to explore it, hard to get your headround the Medlock runs under the canal, got to love the engineering and vision of the builders,
A lot higher as well the viaduct when your up there, your mate had bottle for the top shot !
Keep em coming, much appreciated.
Hi David, yep just getting to grips with the plumbing around Castlefield and where the Medlock runs all fascinating stuff. Yeah Connor the nutter 😃
Great video Martin ,very haunting opening scenes,good music choice,each video gets better.
Thank you Leslie, I did that music 😀
Absolutely awesome structure! Can’t think of any others like this where it’s a steel structure with steel ‘turrets’! Maybe there were others from the same architect that have been dismantled.
A terrific and interesting video, like so many you have done
Thanks for another video Martin and thanks for the live stream the other day.
Hi Rickster. Thank you ! Yep enjoyed the Livestream
Great and interesting video thanks for sharing 👍🏻
Thanks Garry
Great video Martin....those of us ...in the know used to get up there when gigs were on in the arena when it was full for the free gigs...remember them? Particularly remember seeing 808 state and clint boon there.....danced on top of the fire boat one year....happy days!
That would have been fab up there Jimmy
Thanks for sharing more great pictures and history! What a beautiful Victorian bridge it is! It needs a coat of rust paint and too bad they could not use the old right of way as part of a trail system or some other useful purpose!
Well, what can I say. Just finished watching your entire video catalogue; all 93 of them, to date. Plus the Live Stream of course, after the event. Speaking of which, I just love those Choux Pastry Custard Buns from M & S...they really are to die for !! Anyway, just a note so compliment you on your stunning work over the last 2 years. It's great fun and of great interest. Just a thought, looking at your subscriber numbers, 2000+. If we all had a whip round of 50p (10 bob) a head you could replace that drone you so tragically lost in the R.Irwell. I doubt your followers would object to such a Crowd Funding plan. Thanks again for all your work Martin. Will look forward to all your future videos.
Hello Sir I commend you on watching all the video's thank you. Ive done 101 so far but a few were bad so made private. The live stream was fun but maybe just on my channel next time. The Buns amazing but one is not enough. I'll sort a drone soon hopefully but thank you for the kind offer. But seriously thank you very much for your comment and for watching the video's 👍🏼
You're welcome.
That’s a great idea about the drone funding 👍 i’d be up for that 👍
@@MartinZero Blimey 101,dont tell the Mrs.
Hi Martin, great informative video again, really enjoyed this one, such a impressive structure. I was in Manchester yesterday after a visit to Science and Tech museum, went exploring some of your great pubs, Britons Protection and City arms to name a couple. You have a great city only a hour away from Sheffield on the train, all the best Pat
Hello Pat, bloody hell wish I had known, we could of met up. Probably nearly bumped into you as well. Let me know if you pop over again. Or if you want a tour of the bridge. Are you planning any water excursions yourself. You are what basically influenced me on my Medlock series 👍🏼
@@MartinZero Martin we were so impressed by the way your pubs had stayed in there original state, always been a favourite of ours for a drink. We also commented on all your old brick buildings, beautiful they were, I sorry to say that Sheffield looks a bit shabby, whether it's due to our city centre being bombed in the blog and that rebuilt it with concrete which looks really poor now, we will be back. I,ve just been filming a railway tunnel explore just got to edit it and hopefully have it on next week. I spent ages in the tunnel just experimenting with different photo tequniques, you keep doing what you do, really interesting and I,am learning about Manchester all the time, thanks Pat
Well done n a very professional documentary had me glued to it.
Thanks very much David
Pair of scallywags! Brilliant video yet again, fast becoming a massive fan! 😃❤👍
Fascinating. The bridge has always intrigued me. I assumed it closed when Central closed. That was 1969, I think. I've definitely seen pics of trains in Central in 1968. London Road station was rebuilt with more capacity and renamed Piccadilly, and therefore Central was made redundant.
I've seen that overflow by the YHA on Potato Wharf. If you are in the YHA it sounds like you're by a river, especially with the geese honking; very rural indeed! The overflow seems to come out across the road where you can look over a wall to two low arches, like a 'Y' junction, one clearly being a river, the other which I assumed was the culvert from the overflow.
Yes Neil. I want to do a video on that whole area
Another great video Martin...you ran up those stairs quickly near the end!
I did, am very fit 😁🏃
The terrible part is the way they have left the bridge to rust .NEGLECT on a huge scale and Manchester should be ashamed but they say the railways are responsible -Listed buildings sadly mean nothing to Manchester Council .Great video Martin *
Yeah I think they just manage to keep it safe. It truly deserves more
Deserves and by health safety and heaven knows what else should get ! .We are talking unreal types here who will leave until a danger than demolish ( quoting ''for the good of the people' ) BS ..For them to tick the list that says another listed structure has been got rid of and money earned .As a UK tax payer I believe they are as corrupt as they come .Think Genoa ..then think that ...
As one who lived there and was very active in such petitions I left to come here . Although I pay tax to UK each month I have no voting rights there and have found out these are now ignored When there last 2017 a boat was set on fure and left The result oil and debris .The boat wreckage is still there The owner dead ! I still have all the fob off emails They would love the chance to destroy listed and claim central government don't allow the money .As Matins fabulous videos show lots goes AWOL n Manchester .
Nothing to do with the council. The viaduct, along with lots of other redundant railway infrastructure which cannot be sold now belongs to the government, specifically the department for transport.
As Martin says, the viaduct can’t be demolished but it would also cost millions to refurbish. The council do not have this kind of money to spend on assets which they don’t even own. Contrary to popular belief, maintenance is occasionally performed on it to try and slow down its deterioration.
even just a large group of volunteers could do basic maintenance. Clearing weeds, removing rust and painting it. Doesn't need to cost millions.
Warriors come out to play ! Really interesting how the trains went into manchester back in the day.keep em coming Martin.👍 P's cracking sunday dinner in the wharf down there mate.
Hi Brian, I will have to check out sunday lunch
Just came across this vid, dunno how I missed it. Loving the steam punk reference Martin, your spot on about that. Brilliant video very informative as always. Take care from Julie in Burnley..x
Thanks Julie, yeah like a bit of Steampunk
Brillant introduction as well.
Thank you
I could see your apprehension whilst climbing that ladder. Im the same. My job involves climbing scaffolding periodically. Have to swallow my fear and get up there lol. Great vid.
Yeah not good with heights, anything over 8ft thats me 😱Thanks
Truly wonderful.
Love your vids mate, its great to see our industrial heritage.
Great video, very informative, showing more of Manchester's railway/industrial heritage, how can you not be impressed stay safe you guys looking forwards to more from you. How on earth did you get 11 thumbs down?!!!
Hi Keith thanks very much. The thumbs down secretly have a crush on me 👊😝
i have always enjoyed walking around Manchester ...
Me to Mark 👍
Great work Martin, I love watching your videos 👍👌
Hello Jonty many thanks really appreciate you saying 👌
Another great video cheers Martin
Thank you John
Thanks for that Martin. Have always really wanted to see the track bed up there. Am going to start releasing some videos I did 1989/1990 of Crewe and Manchester Piccadilly soon. I'll be dedicating the diesels at Crewe - class 31s 20s 47s etc to you. Tony.
Hi Tony Ive seen the video now and thanks very much
Great video Martin. always wanted a look on Castlefield viaduct but think i'd bottle it!. I wonder if the ladder was to access an overhanging signal gantry of some sort.
Yes I think it was John
Very good. Thank you
I remember going in to Central station in the mid 70s when all the platforms were still there. I watched Tim and Pru filming their series on canals at Castlefields in the Summer.
I would have love to have seen it as a working station Philip 👍
@@MartinZero My dad used to park his car at Central Station when I was a child and I loved the arched roof even then; I remember the platforms being there too and also being amazed how large it was when they were gone. But it did freak me out (even now!) because of its links with the Moors Murders. Central Station Left Luggage lockers was where the Police found the suitcase with all the information on the murders that Brady/Hindley had stored there. I was at a Manchester Xmas Party there a couple of years ago (which was amazing from the station architecture perspective; forget the party!) but seeing the Left Luggage signs still gave me chills. Central Station was also where Brady picked up Edward Evans to later murder him, so it's always had a very tragic feel to it for me. Another fantastic video and I've always loved Castlefield viaduct - hope they fix it/regenerate it soon.
Your videos are inspiring me to go exploring
Did a little bit earlier this week near Victoria mills and the canals
Ahh great. The Canal there is fab
Very informative. Some things I never knew about my city. Keep up the good work martin
Hi Kenny, thanks very much
The second you mentioned, when quoting that paragraph, the copper rivet, I thought I'd love to find out where it is. Cue nine mins in and you say exactly the same! Lol, glad I'm not the only one to think this way!!!
Yeah I would love to search that bridge and find that copper bloody rivet 😆
@@MartinZero If ever you do search for the copper rivet Martin, a magnet will be the easiest way of identifying those that aren't copper under the paint. It could ...if you didn't already know save you hours. It's also likely to be not too high - I'd guess perhaps at about waist height).
It's doubtful if it would have been used where structural strength might have been compromised,
Love the clamped car just near the end
They should turn the top of that bridge into an urban nature park
That is a fantastic idea and probably so simple that someone is bound to say that it's impossible ! I can already see the mountains of risk assessments and all the other associated paperwork it would generate. The final paragraph is almost certainly likely to be " Victorian masterpiece bridge now deemed to be beyond repair due to constant risk assessment delays" I suppose "listed structures" could be dealt with in the same way. No chance of ever demolishing it but simply "sit back and wait until it collapses into a mountain of brickwork and scrap metal" and there is room for another housing development !
Funnily enough that’s exactly what they have just announced for next year 2022…..
@@rufdymond awesome!
@@macbuff81 I was thinking exactly the same - kinda like the Hi - Line along the Hudson on the west side of NYC