With the trackwork now lifted on both approach (upper level) and return (lower level) sidings the greenery invades further at Blyth West staithes. The West staithes were the last of the massive timber coal exporting structures to be built and were completed in the 1920's. Along with the South, North, Cowpen and Bates facilities they enabled Blyth to become the biggest coal shipping port in Europe with a peak annual tonnage in the 1960s of c 7 million tons. West Staithes continued until the early 90's but were then demolished. Not sure why the lamp standards remain? See image 24005
Location: Blyth West Staithes
Original line: North Blyth Branch (Blyth and Tyne Railway)
Photographer: Brian Taylor
Contact photographer: Brian Taylor
Date: 15/06/2012
Image number: 39288