Knitsley Viaduct

Knitsley: Knitsley station was situated on the Lanchester Valley Branch. This viaduct could be found a further one and a half miles east of the station, half-way to Lanchester village. Work on the branch began in February 1861, using stone brought in from Benton Quarry, (North of Newcastle) for several large bridges.

Knitsley Burn and its sharp approach curves were a constant worry to the “North Eastern Railway”. By 1915, the viaduct was in need of major repairs and a decision was taken to turn it into an embankment with the use of colliery slag and spent (used) ballast. This lengthy operation can be seen in progress depicted in the photo during the year 1919 – and note the underpass ramparts built-in readiness for the “fill” to be placed.