Bunker Drain
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Bunker. Is a storm drain which runs for approximatley 3.5 miles underneath the streets of Warrington.
The drain is modern in comparison with some of the other drains in the area and consists mainly of Reinforced Concrete Pipe (RCP). It does how ever hold some impressive features.
Upon entering Bunker you are first apprehensive as you really dont know what to expect. The entrance is rather stunning itself with walkways covering the entire first section of the drain. Once you pass this you are then on your way through 3.5 miles of RCP and chambers.
The chambers themselves are incredible with various tunnels linking up which distribute the water that flows into the drain.
The trip through is a long and exhausting one. Its layout is the main reason this, as you find a pattern, RCP then a chamber, RCP then a chamber and so on.
What is surprising though is how deep underground it goes. In some sections there are access shafts which go up around 4 storeys high. It does become rather confusing at times as the entire system doesnt really incline that much.
Deep inside the drain there is a main section which splits off into smaller tunnels which are a bit of a squeeze to negotiate.
The highlight of the trip though was reaching the giant staircase that lies deep inside the drain, just before the swirl pot that marks the end of the drain.
What is surprising is the amount of wildlife that lives down there. The Frogs, Eels and Fish that inhabit the place is spectacular and certainly a site none of us ever expected to see.
Having done a few Culverts and mini drains we needed to see a proper drain and Bunker was the one to see. iIts regarded as one of the best drains in the country and ranked third by the Draining Community. Explorers from Europe have even travelled to the U.K. to see this Bunker.
That aside though it was worth our efforts and long overdue. Having one of the best drains in the country on our doorstep it would of been rude of us not to explore it wouldnt it?
And interesting explore this one if not somewhat repetitive, exhausting and incredibly hot.
EXPLORED 2008
Bunker Drain
URBAN ASSAULT
