One of the largest offshore gas fields in the UK ( South Morecambe's 32 sq miles) was discovered in 1974 and a decision was made to develop it to help winter demand for gas. The first natural gas was piped inshore here in Barrow through 36 inch pipes in 1985.
Of course my attention was grabbed by the yellow gas flare pipes with yellow buttercups in the foreground but lets walk further on and the Gas Terminal comes into view
Photographs were taken in May which is when the gorse always looks its most startling yellow. The Gas Terminal was built in the site of the old Rooscote coal fired power station but the soil here on the shoreline was found to be succeptable to liquefaction. It will come as no surprise to know that that is because it was sandy (alluvial and glacial). An unusual foundation pile design was created to be able to overcome earthquake risks. Not that this is especially common occurrence as we are not on any fault lines ( the Irish Sea had minor tremor in August (3.3)) but the structure has to withstand the possibility of a 1 in 500 or 1 in 1000 years event.
The cycle path and Cumbria Coastal Way from Rampside to Barrow passes briefly below and between the terminal and the shoreline.
But for those of us that like a bit of industrial photography there is the small matter of a high fence to dissuade.
The cycle path leads eventually to Cavendish Dock and the Gas Terminal can be seen over Roosecote Sands in the distance to the right of the fishing shelter. The chimney to the left is the electricity station, and as I have a love of puns you could say this is a powerful view. Is that a groan I can hear?
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