British Industrial Railways: 1960s-1980s

The earliest railways were built for industrial uses, with coal being the principal commodity carried. Traction was mostly steam, but also fireless, electric, and diesel. This book illustrates many of the systems to be found around Britain in the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s, many no longer in existence. Other users were quarries, paper mills, breweries, and the Army.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 15 March 2023
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

The development of railways in Britain can be traced back to the early 19th century, primarily for industrial purposes. Coal was the dominant commodity transported, often from coal mines to docks or canals for further transportation. As the passenger railway gained popularity, industrial railways continued to operate, but largely as separate entities. Within private works, locomotives were designed and built by the organization responsible for their maintenance and that of the track.

This book provides a comprehensive illustration of the various systems that existed in Britain during the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s, many of which are no longer in operation. Traction methods varied widely, including steam, fireless, electric, and diesel. These were developed by companies such as Andrew Barclay, Hunslet, Peckett, and many others. During World War II, austerity 0-6-0T steam locomotives were produced in large numbers, but many of these were deemed surplus to post-war Britain's requirements.

A prominent operator was the National Coal Board, which was nationalized in 1947. The board was responsible for moving coal from coal mines to washeries before it could be dispatched. Other users of industrial railways included quarries, paper mills, breweries, and even the Army. The Longmoor Military Railway was a notable example of the Army's use of railways for military purposes. In addition to industrial uses, engineering trains of British Railways and London Underground also played a significant role. Not all railways were on standard gauge, with the Bowaters in Kent being a notable exception.

Starting in 1952, some of the Welsh narrow gauge slate railways survived into preservation, and a few of these are represented in this book. John Glover's photographs provide a fascinating overview of the industrial railway scene in Britain during this period, showcasing the diversity and complexity of the railway systems that operated in the country.

Weight: 280g
Dimension: 233 x 166 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781398111943