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Ferrybridge, canal & river Aire walk


The White Shire Walk

Ferrybridge is a small town located in the district of West Yorkshire in England. The history of Ferrybridge dates back to the 11th century when a wooden bridge was built over the River Aire to connect the town with the nearby village of Knottingley.

In the 19th century, Ferrybridge became an important transportation hub due to the construction of the Knottingley and Goole Canal and the Great North Road, which passed through the town. The canal enabled the transportation of goods such as coal and textiles from the nearby towns to the ports of Goole and Hull, while the Great North Road was a major route for coaches and mail services.

During the industrial revolution, Ferrybridge became a significant coal-mining center, and several collieries were established in the area. In the early 20th century, the town saw the construction of two large power stations, Ferrybridge A and Ferrybridge B, which were among the largest of their kind in Europe at the time.

In the latter half of the 20th century, Ferrybridge underwent significant changes due to the decline of the coal industry. Many of the collieries were closed down, and the power stations were decommissioned in the early 21st century.

Today, Ferrybridge remains a small town, with a population of around 5,000 people. It is mostly known for its proximity to the A1(M) motorway, which runs through the town, and for its historic bridge, which still stands and is now a Grade II listed structure.





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