Spike Island was the birthplace of the British chemical industry. In the late
19th century the area was dominated by Hutchinson's and Gossage's huge
factories, and a maze of railway lines criss-crossed the island. The Sankey
Canal and the Wet Dock were always busy with boats carrying cargo to the Mersey
and the ports of the world beyond.By the early 20th century, the development of more efficient processes, and the
introduction of new legislation on pollution, made the old factories obsolete
and sent the chemical industry on Spike Island into decline.Many different kinds of birds and other animals can be seen at Spike Island and
on the marshes towards Fiddler's Ferry. In winter, birds such as shelduck,
redshank and teal can be seen on the mudflats in the Mersey, while birds of prey
including sparrowhawk, kestrel and short-eared owl hunt over the marshes.The
woodland and grassland are home to small mammals, insects and birds all year
round, so there's always a wide variety of wildlife to watch out for.A network of footpaths has replaced the railway lines on the Island, allowing
you to explore the site and enjoy expansive views across the River Mersey. The
Mersey Way footpath and the Trans Pennine Trail run through Spike Island and you
can follow them up the Sankey Canal to Warrington and beyond.
In 1990 The Stone Roses decided to stage a huge outdoor gig at Spike Island in
Widnes. The gig took place on 27 May 1990 and was attended by approximately
27,000 people.
On with the pics.
The locks.
More Pics To Follow
No comments:
Post a Comment