A recent exploration has unveiled the remarkable control room of an abandoned chemical plant in the UK, left untouched for over 20 years. The urban explorer, who documented this discovery, captured stunning photographs that reveal a space frozen in time, filled with old computer monitors, keyboards, and files, all covered in a thick layer of dust.
The images depict a scene reminiscent of a bygone era, with machinery that showcases chunky physical dials, knobs, and gauges, alongside off-white computer monitors and vintage telephones. These elements evoke nostalgia for those familiar with technology from the late 20th century. Outside the facility, photographs highlight train tracks leading to the site and a complex network of pipes winding through nearby woodland.
History of the Plant and Its Current State
According to the urban explorer, the control room once powered a significant chemical plant that produced Soda Ash, a compound used in various industries, including glass manufacturing and water treatment. The explorer noted, “Most of the plant was knocked down and rebuilt with a more modern facility nearby, but the control room building and a few others remain. I think they may be listed, so they can’t be demolished.” This designation likely contributes to the preservation of the control room’s unique features.
Soda ash has diverse applications, including use in laundry detergents and as a food ingredient. The urban explorer elaborated on their experience, stating, “After an epic trek through the forest, swamps, abandoned train tracks, and barren wasteland, we finally reached our target.”
Public Reaction and Comparisons
The photographs have sparked amazement among social media users, particularly on platforms like Reddit. One commenter remarked, “Looks pretty clean for over 20 years abandoned. Great find, OP (original poster)!” The original poster responded by highlighting the site’s remote location, which has likely deterred vandalism.
Several users expressed their surprise at the plant’s condition. Comments included sentiments such as, “I’m surprised anything like this in its current condition exists in the UK, awesome find and great pictures.” Others compared the scene to the popular video game series Fallout, with one user stating, “Looks straight out of a Fallout game.” The urban explorer humorously noted that their son made a similar comparison during their visit.
The remarkable preservation of this abandoned control room serves as a testament to both the historical significance of the site and the allure of urban exploration. As more individuals seek to document forgotten places, the stories behind these locations continue to captivate the imagination.
