North Ayrshire, with its rich industrial heritage and stunning coastal scenery, has long been served by a network of railways. Among its railway infrastructure are tunnels and lines that have witnessed decades of travel and change. But are there any abandoned railway tunnels or disused railway sections around Fairlie, Largs, and the wider North Ayrshire area?
Fairlie Tunnel — History and Current Status
One of the most notable tunnels in the area is the Fairlie Tunnel, located just north of Fairlie railway station on the Ayrshire Coast Line. This tunnel stretches about 971 yards (887 meters) and was originally opened in 1885. It was designed as a double-track tunnel to serve the bustling rail traffic between Glasgow and the coastal towns.
Despite its age, the Fairlie Tunnel is still very much in use today. It underwent modifications during the 1980s, including electrification and some track reconfiguration.
Why Was the Southbound Platform at Fairlie Removed?
During the electrification and modernization of the Ayrshire Coast Line in the 1980s, the tunnel was reduced from double track to a single track through the tunnel section to simplify operations and reduce maintenance costs. As a result, the southbound platform at Fairlie station became redundant and was removed.
This removal helped streamline the station layout and adapt it to the new track configuration, allowing trains to efficiently use the single track within the tunnel.
The Old Fairlie Pier Junction and Pier Station
Just north of the tunnel was the Fairlie Pier Junction, which connected to a branch line leading to Fairlie Pier. The pier station was an important gateway for ferry connections to the Isle of Bute and the Cumbraes, linking rail and sea travel.
However, the pier station closed in 1972, with ferry operations ceasing the year before. While the railway lines around Fairlie continue to operate, the pier station itself and its connecting branch are now part of history, with no active rail service to the pier.
What About Largs?
Largs, another charming town on the Ayrshire coast, is served by the Largs Branch Line, which remains active today. Unlike some industrial regions with abandoned railway features, there are no known abandoned railway tunnels in or near Largs. The line continues to support daily passenger services, connecting communities along the coast.
Other Abandoned or Disused Railway Sections in North Ayrshire
Beyond Fairlie and Largs, North Ayrshire has seen several other railway lines and sections fall into disuse or abandonment over the years, mainly due to the decline of local industries and changing transport needs:
- Dalry and Kilwinning Branches: Several branch lines that once served coal mines, factories, and other industrial sites have been closed and dismantled. Remnants like old platforms and trackbeds can still be found.
- Lanarkshire and Ayrshire Railway (L&A Railway): Once an extensive network serving the region, many branches and lines were shut down mid-20th century. Today, old track beds and infrastructure remain visible in the countryside.
- Ardrossan and Saltcoats Lines: Although main lines remain active, some older branches and sidings serving docks and industrial sites have been abandoned and removed.
- Eglinton Country Park Near Irvine: Just south of North Ayrshire, this park contains remnants of a disused railway tunnel and trackbeds that attract local railway enthusiasts.
Conclusion
While North Ayrshire boasts a proud railway heritage with historic tunnels like the Fairlie Tunnel still in operation, there are no abandoned railway tunnels in Fairlie or Largs themselves. However, a number of smaller branch lines and industrial spurs across the wider North Ayrshire area have been abandoned or dismantled, reflecting the region’s evolving industrial landscape and transport needs.
For railway history buffs and explorers, North Ayrshire and its surrounding areas offer a fascinating mix of active lines and historic remnants waiting to be discovered.
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