Pluckley
| Pluckley today remains as a reminder of the archetypal SER rural outpost. Future developments include a proposed further extension to the platforms to accommodate longer trains, extended car parking and the replacement of the 1961 footbridge during 2009. |
| The platform shelter on the up platform is also of SER origin,
having been constructed in 1885. The original low platforms were replaced by
solid concrete structures by the Southern around 1927.
photograph by Stephen Roffey |
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Evidence of former ownership on an inspection cover on the down
platform.
photograph by Stephen Roffey |
| Although it's rail connection has long since been removed,
Pluckley retains a fully operational coal yard behind the eastern end of the
down platform. A traditional gate and Southern Region prefabricated concrete
fencing are in evidence.
photograph by Stephen Roffey |
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The station seen from the further along the up platform, 21st
September 2008, showing the hump backed road bridge which straddles the
station. This platform is extremely narrow where the bridge meets it, a large
red sign warning passengers not to alight from there. The original Kent Coast
Phase II electrification plans incorporated a third track, signalled for
reversible running, between Pluckley and Ashford. This abandoned proposal would
likely have significantly altered this view.
photograph by Stephen Roffey |
| Closure of the goods yard on 20th September 1965 permitted the
extension of the down platform at its western end with prefabricated concrete
on stilts. The distinct gap in the platform edging to the far right would have
previously accommodated mechanical signalling equipment for the opposite up
line's set of points.
photograph by Stephen Roffey |
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The view from the road bridge, looking towards Tonbridge. From
Ashford to Tonbridge the line is almost completely straight, an unusual feature
which was of much assistance to early aviators flying from Paris to London.
Many stations on the line had their names painted on their roofs as an
additional aid.
photograph by Stephen Roffey |
| Text and captions from Steve Roffey. |
All photographs are copyright
First | 2nd
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This page was created 26 October 2008
