Stalybridge New Tunnel, located in Stalybridge, Greater Manchester, is an abandoned railway tunnel that was part of the Woodhead Line and the first tunnel on the Micklehurst Loop.
This historic route connected Manchester and Sheffield and was constructed to alleviate congestion from the older Stalybridge Old Tunnel.
Completed in 1894, the New Tunnel featured modern design improvements, including better ventilation and a more efficient track layout.
The Micklehurst Loop opened in 1886 and primarily served goods traffic to maintain efficiency on the mainline for passenger trains.
Due to the rugged terrain, the loop was created instead of widening existing infrastructure for twin tracks. Stalybridge New Tunnel is the first of three tunnels on this loop, followed by Royal George Tunnel (140 yards) and Butterhouse Tunnel (329 yards). The Royal George Tunnel has been filled and landscaped, while the eastern portal of Butterhouse Tunnel remains open.
All three tunnels were constructed with engineering brick, strengthened with additional layers, and equipped with refuges fitted with white ceramic plates for visibility.
Passenger services on the Micklehurst Loop ended on May 1, 1907, and the line was used for freight until its closure in 1966, except for a short section serving Hartshead Power Station until 1972.
Another railway tunnel boxed off and an excuse to test out some new extendable ladders and do some light painting.
