Merseyway Tunnel
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The Merseyway Tunnel lies beneath Stockport shopping precinct. The tunnel dates back to the 1960s when the precinct was constructed. Stockport precinct was incidently one of the first shopping complexes built in the country.
The entire precinct sits on stilts which also act as the supports for the interior of the tunnel which runs the entire length of the shopping centre which is just over 500m.
The tunnel also houses and overhead motorized gantry which also runs the length of the tunnel. This is actually open for tours periodically by the management company which operates the shopping centre.
Stockport has a labyrinth of underground tunnel systems and rivers dating back hundreds of years. With the river Mersey and river Goyt sitting almost on top of each other it became a popular place in the last century for the textile industry. Namely the Hatting industry of which Stockport is famous for.
Where the Mersyway Tunnel is situated was once the home of the first mill in Stockport. Powered by a giant water wheel which had various inlets running from the mill to the river Mersey. Some of the inlets still remain to this day although many are sealed or to dangerous to explore.
It was only a matter of time really before we explored this place but it was well worth the wait.
Despite heavy rain conditions and constantly rapid rising water levels. It was somewhat of a gamble if we could actually explore this tunnel.
The problem we faced where currents fast enough to knock you over and under currents strong enough to drag you under. Both of which could end up with someone possibly drowning. Not a pleasent thought, and the last thing you want to happen on an explore is an accident or even worse a fatality.
So with safety in mind this turned out to be a very cautious and slow explore. Safety lines were rigged stretching the width of the tunnel with the boats attatched to them. Climbing equipment was also used to safely ascend to the sanctuary of the internal walkways under the tunnel.
Although the tunnel isnt really photogenic it does have some interesting features. Namely the concrete stilts that the precinct sits upon.
This place was worth the effort in everyway though. The shear determination and skill involved just to get in was more fun than actually photographing it......!!!
