This photograph was taken in the late summer of 1972 from the grassy area next to Kingsport Close, Portrack. It is looking towards the Rocks field, which in the old days used to be the local football ground for the Portrack Shamrocks. It was effctively supposed to be the local park. However the area had fallen into disuse and become overgrown. In the winter it was flooded by Lustrem Beck. At the time the whole field was being covered by loads of earth and spoil, which completely eliminated the flooding .
Photograph and details courtesy of Fred Starr.
I know that field so well before was filled in it was a large hole filled with water we played in it. I remember the trucks filling it in as we jump on the back getting a lift to Portrack Lane. I lived at the top Southport Close number 12 then number 10.
In the far distance Holme House Prison seems to be in the course of erection. This would have cut out the distant view of ICI at night, which before the ubiquitous use of yellow sodium lighting looked really spectacular with the works use of mercury vapour lamps of many different colours.
Fred, I think that would have been a few years before Holme House Prison was built – I can remember it being built in the early to mid 80’s I think
Looks like it’s Albany school (Norton) in the distance (now demolished). With some buildings and the lighting tower associated with the rail freight depot in front (also long gone).
I agree, it looks like Albany Road Secondary Modern, possibly by then Norton Comprehensive.
I seem to remember there was a Sports Hall built in the early 70’s, so that could be the building works.