User:P203067/Manchester Hydraulic Power

Manchester's Hydraulic Power system was a hydraulic power network supplying energy across Manchester city via a system of dedicated water pipes from three pump house stations to the end user.

Use
The system was used as a cleaner and more compact alternative to steam engines, to power workshop machinery, lifts, cranes, Manchester Town Hall clock and even powered the curtain at the Manchester Opera House in Quay Street.

Pumping stations
The pressure was driven by three hydraulic power stations, originally driven by coal-fired steam engines. These were at:


 * Whitworth Street on the banks of the River Irwell
 * Bridge Street (constructed 1907–09) building designed by Henry Price
 * Pott Street

Decline
In 1972 the Bridge Street station closed when hydraulic power was superseded as electric power became more popular.

Modern times
Whitworth Street on the banks of the River Irwell (now the people’s History Museum since May 1994)