Copley Valley: A Glimpse of Transformation in 2014

In March 2014, the Copley Valley in Calderdale, just east of Sowerby Bridge, was a landscape in flux. Once known as Milner Royd, this area was undergoing a significant redevelopment, transforming from its industrial past into a mix of industrial, housing, and nature reserve spaces.

The images captured in 2014 provide a fascinating snapshot of this transition. Prior to the redevelopment, Milner Royd was home to the remains of the Sowerby Bridge Sewage Works, a large dam that was a popular spot for anglers until its drainage, the Sterne Bridge (built in 1914), and the old Standard Wire Factory. It was also an area rich in wildlife and nature, bordered by the railway to the south, the River Calder splitting it down the middle, and the Calder & Hebble Navigation Canal to the north.

The Changing Landscape

The development was well underway in 2014, with a new road and bridge already constructed. Much of the land was set aside for the building of new industrial units. The scene shows the wet, muddy ground, indicative of recent earthworks, with the freshly laid road cutting through the landscape. This stark image contrasts with the more natural, albeit muddy, appearance of the valley before intensive development.

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Copley Valley Nature Reserve, The picture was taken looking west with
my back towards Copley Viaduct. 

Copley Valley, this area which had been cleared for industrial units and
the new access road was the site of Sowerby Bridge Sewage Works opened
in 1896. The road passes over what was the dam, the water that filled it now
underground to the River Calder.

Enduring Structures and Fading Eras

Amidst the changes, some older structures remained, offering a glimpse into the area's railway heritage. The Milner Royd Bridge, with its sturdy stone arches, stands as a testament to the enduring railway infrastructure. This bridge has since been closed to the public.

Further along the railway line, the Milner Royd Signal Box was still operational in 2014, although it would close just four years later in 2018. This small, distinctive building played a vital role in managing the railway traffic at Milner Royd Junction, where the line splits towards Brighouse and Halifax.

Another notable feature from this period is the Hollas Lane Arch Bridge. This stone arch bridge, where the railway line divides, is another example of the area's historical railway architecture, standing firm amidst the surrounding development.

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The Copley Valley project represents a significant chapter in Calderdale's history, balancing industrial growth with the preservation of natural spaces. The 2014 images serve as a valuable record of this ambitious transformation, capturing a moment when the past was giving way to a new future for Milner Royd.

Hollas Lane Railway Bridge, built circa 1840 to carry the Manchester and
Leeds Railway over Hollas Lane.

Milner Royd Bridge carries Milner Royd Lane over the railway, closed
to the public by gates at both ends, the bridge used to be one of the main
walking / packhorse routes down from Norland to the valley bottom.

Milner Royd Signal Box, was still in operation when I took this picture
in 2014, closing in the summer of 2018. The box had been built in 1876 to
control the junction to the right of the picture where trains head off in the
directions of Brighouse or Halifax.

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Halifax Railway Station: November 2013

Stepping off the train at Halifax in November 2013 offers a fascinating blend of history, industry, and the ever-present drama of a working railway. Armed with my Samsung Galaxy tablet, I took some time to capture the various facets of this intriguing station, a true testament to its past and present.

A Striking Approach: The Access Bridge

The first impression of Halifax Station for many is often from below, looking up at the grand access bridge. From the perspective of "Halifax Railway Station Access Bridge.jpg," the imposing white structure, with its sturdy pillars, dominates the foreground. It's a clear indication of the elevated nature of the station itself, built to traverse the undulating terrain of this Calderdale town. The hint of rust on the bridge's underside adds character, a sign of its age and the constant battle against the elements. In the background, a towering church steeple peeks out, a classic West Yorkshire vista. The yellow pathway beneath, contrasting with the green, suggests a clear route for pedestrians, even if the area feels somewhat industrial.

Platforms, Tracks, and Time: The Heart of the Station

Once on the platforms, the station reveals its operational essence. "Halifax Station Platform 1.jpg" gives us a view down Platform 1, with the distinctive red-framed windows of the station building adding a splash of colour against the more muted tones of the landscape. The curving track hints at the challenging topography of the area, while a train in the distance underscores the station's purpose. The station signs, with "Lift" clearly marked, indicate efforts to improve accessibility, a modern touch within a historical setting.

"Halifax Railway Station 1.jpg," a monochrome shot, offers a broader perspective of the station building from the platform. The large windows of what appears to be a more modern extension sit alongside older, industrial-style roofing. The stark black and white treatment emphasizes the structural elements and the functional beauty of a working railway environment, with the bare trees on the surrounding hillsides confirming the late autumn chill.

The Watchful Eye: Halifax Signal Box

A prominent feature that catches the eye is the classic railway signal box. "Halifax Station Bridge and Signal Box.jpg" shows it nestled just beyond the platform, a quintessential piece of railway heritage. Its white clapboard siding and numerous windows give it a charming, almost house-like appearance, yet its purpose is entirely functional – controlling the intricate dance of trains on these tracks. This view, again, highlights the overhead bridge structure, providing a sense of the station's layered design. "Halifax Railway Station Signal Box.jpg" provides a closer, sepia-toned look at the signal box, emphasizing its traditional wooden construction and the "HALIFAX" nameplate, a proud declaration of its location. It's a reminder of a bygone era of railway operation, even if its duties are now likely assisted by modern technology.

Echoes of the Past: Hidden Depths

Perhaps the most evocative images are those that delve beneath the active station, hinting at a forgotten past. "Abandoned Tunnel Underneath Halifax Railway Station.jpg" is particularly haunting. The sepia tone enhances the sense of age and disuse. The rough-hewn stone walls, the debris-strewn floor, and the enigmatic doorway in the distance speak of an industrial past, perhaps an old goods tunnel or a disused access point. It feels like a secret passage, a hidden world beneath the bustling station above.

Similarly, "Steps Under Halifax Railway Station.jpg" captures another descent into the station's lower levels. The steps, partly paved with what looks like worn tiles, lead downwards into a dimly lit space. The stone walls, adorned with some graffiti, and the single, orange light fixture create an atmospheric, almost theatrical feel. These hidden pathways suggest a complex network of tunnels and underpasses, integral to the station's historical operation and its connection to the surrounding townscape.

The Enduring Elegance: The 1855 Building

Beyond the immediate station environs, "Halifax Railway Station 1855 Building.jpg" presents a truly magnificent structure – the original 1855 station building. This grand, classical edifice, with its ornate façade, tall windows, and imposing portico, stands in stark contrast to the more utilitarian structures seen elsewhere. It speaks of an era when railway stations were designed as gateways, symbols of civic pride and prosperity. Surrounded by vibrant autumnal foliage, its architectural beauty is truly highlighted, hinting at a time when passengers would have arrived in horse-drawn carriages at its elegant entrance.

Broader Perspectives: The Station in its Setting

Finally, "Halifax Railway Station Roofs from Bailey Hall.jpg" offers a panoramic view, showcasing the station's relationship with its environment. From a higher vantage point, possibly Bailey Hall, we see the station roofs nestled amidst the rich autumnal colours of the surrounding hillsides. The green expanse in the foreground, bordered by old stone walls, emphasizes the natural beauty that surrounds this industrial hub. The church spire once again punctuates the skyline, firmly placing the station within the character of Halifax.

And "Lilly Lane Footbridge, Halifax Railway Station.jpg" shows another aspect of the station's infrastructure – a long, covered footbridge, likely connecting different parts of the railway complex or providing public access over the tracks. Its metallic, somewhat utilitarian design, with wire mesh, suggests a robust, functional structure, while the moss on the walkway adds a touch of natural encroachment.

In November 2013, Halifax Railway Station is a place of contrasts: the grandeur of its Victorian past intertwined with the functional demands of a modern railway, and the hidden, almost forgotten, spaces that lie beneath its active tracks. It's a station that truly tells a story, captured beautifully by the lens of a simple tablet.

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The bridge is the only access to the stations island platform

The Nestle Factory can be seen to the right of the picture

The listed 1855 building, having housed officers and a nursery for
the Eureka Children's Museum, their are now plans to reopen this
building.

The operations were moved to York and this signal Box Closed
in October 2018.

The following pictures were taken near to the station buildings.

Halifax Station is built upon a viaduct, high wall and this is one of the
tunnels underneath the station.

This bridge used to cross a number of lines and the goods yard, it was built
to provide a new access to the station in the 1880's.
There are currently plans going forward to demolish this structure.

The station buildings roofs captured from Bailey Hall. The Halifax
branch of the Calder & Hebble Navigation used to terminate
near to this site which is occupied by Nestle now.

Lilly Lane Footbridge was built to replace Lilly Lane, 
the road having been split in 2 by the railways arrival
and the station construction.

One of the tunnel paths that lead underneath
Halifax Station.

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Milner Royd Junction: A Secluded Spot to Watch Time and Trains Go By

There are places that, for reasons often indefinable, simply call to you. For me, one such spot is Milner Royd Junction, nestled approximately a mile to the east of Sowerby Bridge Railway Station in West Yorkshire. It's not a grand tourist attraction, nor is it bustling with activity. Instead, it offers a quiet retreat, a place where the rhythm of passing trains provides a unique kind of solace.

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Where Lines Converge and History Lingers

Milner Royd Junction is a fascinating intersection of railway history and modern transport. This is the point where the Caldervale line, heading towards Halifax, diverges from the Calder Valley line, which leads towards Brighouse. The Calder Valley line, being the older of the two, carries a rich heritage. Interestingly, the section towards Brighouse was closed to passenger services in 1970, primarily serving as a freight line until its reopening for passengers in 2000.

Even today, the old signal box stands sentinel at the junction, a silent testament to a bygone era of railway operations, now redundant but still a proud fixture of the landscape. The junction itself is spanned by a distinctive four-arch bridge. This bridge once offered a pathway towards Norland, but for as long as I can remember, access from its northern side has been locked off. While the higher southern gate is typically unlocked, reaching it is a bit of an adventure, as the surrounding area is often overgrown.

Despite these minor access quirks, Milner Royd Junction remains a cherished spot. It's a place where you're virtually guaranteed to be left alone, allowing you to simply observe the constant flow of train transport passing by – a truly meditative experience for any railway enthusiast.

An Unforgettable Encounter: A Steam Train on the Valley Line

One particular day stands out vividly in my memory at Milner Royd Junction: Sunday, November 3rd, 2019. I had heard whispers that a majestic steam train was scheduled to journey along the valley, passing directly through the junction. This was an opportunity not to be missed. The train was making its way from Blackburn to Wakefield Kirkgate, a journey that promised a spectacular sight.

Knowing that punctuality isn't always a hallmark of British railways, I made sure to arrive early. This decision proved to be incredibly wise, as the steam train, defying expectations, arrived ahead of schedule! It was a truly exhilarating moment, the air filled with the iconic chuffing sound and the scent of coal, as the magnificent locomotive thundered through the junction.

The following two videos, from my YouTube account, capture the magic of that day, allowing you to experience a glimpse of that unforgettable steam train passage through Milner Royd Junction.

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