This forgotten tunnel, marked by two circular rotunda buildings, stands as a silent testament to Glasgow's bustling past. Located in the shadow of the iconic Finnieston Crane, these structures serve as the entry and exit points to a long-abandoned Victorian marvel.
The tale of this tunnel dates back to the 1890s when the Glasgow Harbour Tunnel Company embarked on its ambitious project. At a time when the city was gripped by tunnelling fever, with the construction of the subway system and the "low level" underground platform at Central Station underway, the company promised a revolutionary means of traversing the river.
Three parallel tunnels were constructed between Finnieston and Mavisbank Quay, with two designated for horse-drawn vehicles and a third, closer to the surface, reserved for pedestrians. The innovative use of hydraulic cage lifts, supplied by a New York firm, facilitated the transportation of horses and carts through a 24m (78ft) shaft into the passageway below.
While the horses adapted well to the lifts, pedestrians faced a less favorable experience, navigating a long wooden staircase to access the foot tunnel, which gained a reputation for its occasional leaks.
As the years passed, the tunnels witnessed a shift in usage, with pedestrians eventually sharing the vehicular tunnels alongside "motors." Despite efforts to attract commuters, the tunnels never achieved the financial success envisioned by the company. Subsidized by the city authorities during World War One and fully acquired in 1926, the tunnels continued to serve as a vital thoroughfare.
During World War Two, the tunnels provided a safe route for dockers and shipyard workers. However, in 1943, faced with rising maintenance costs, city officials ordered the removal of the lift equipment for wartime purposes. The pedestrian tunnel reopened in 1947 but was ultimately closed to the public in 1980, replaced by the Bell's Bridge footbridge in 1988.
Today, the tunnels serve a different purpose, housing a water main since 1938, maintained by Scottish Water. For those who recall traversing the tunnel in its heyday, memories evoke a mix of nostalgia and trepidation. Colin Duncan fondly remembers his teenage journeys through the tunnel, appreciating its unique charm despite the ominous staircase descent.
The rotunda buildings, now listed structures, have undergone various transformations over the years, from casinos and restaurants to offices and pop-up shops. Helenor Fisher, of Scottish marine engineering group Malin, reflects on the shared history between the rotunda and her company, emphasizing the significance of preserving these architectural relics.
While public access to the tunnel remains restricted, glimpses of its interior offer a glimpse into Glasgow's industrial heritage. As Helenor ventured into the depths of the tunnel, she marveled at its remarkable preservation, a testament to the ingenuity of its Victorian architects.
Walking beneath the River Clyde, she was struck by the tunnel's enduring legacy, a silent witness to over a century of history. Despite the passage of time, the tunnel stands as a testament to Glasgow's industrial prowess, a reminder of the city's vibrant past.
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