Today, we explore Rothesay Dock a busy commercial port on the River Clyde. It has served Clydebank well for over a century. Rothesay Dock’s story begins in 1899. The Clyde Navigation Trust bought 76 acres of riverbank for £81000. Construction started in 1900. Originally named Clydebank Dock, it officially opened in 1907. The Prince of Wales renamed it Rothesay Dock after his title, Duke of Rothesay.
Imagine the scene in 1907. The Prince of Wales arrives to dedicate this new dock. Crowds line the riverbanks eager to witness the opening. The air is filled with anticipation for the economic boom this dock promises.
Rothesay Dock was designed for coal shipment and iron-ore importation. The dock had an inner and outer basin lying parallel to the Clyde. The outer basin connected to the river through a 200-foot entrance. The inner basin measured 1735 feet by 300 feet.
Think about the innovation here. Rothesay Dock was the first British port with a self-contained power system. It powered coal hoists, cranes, and lights. The north quay housed the power station. Four electric-powered coal hoists handled 20-ton wagons. Thirty-six 4-ton mineral cranes were also in use.
Consider the railways connecting to Rothesay Dock. The Rothesay Dock Branch was a joint venture. Both the North British Railway and Caledonian Railway served the dock. The line passed below Yoker Ferry. A large marshalling yard served the hoists to the east. A smaller yard served the southern quayside. A lattice footbridge crossed the lines at Green Road.
But as time passed things changed. The opening of new iron ore berths at General Terminus in 1959 impacted Rothesay Dock. Iron importing on the south quay ended. The dock was re-equipped for coal imports. Coal export also declined.
In 1959, coal hoists number 1 and 2 were demolished. Number 3 closed in 1964. Only number 4 remained. Later, strip coil was imported for Gartcosh Steelworks. Coal was also imported reversing the original purpose. The north quay then became a site for building modules for oil rigs.
The approach from Scotstoun West Junction closed in 1980. Coal import for Ravenscraig Steel Works ended with the opening of Hunterston Ore Terminal. The sidings at Clydebank Dock East Junction fell out of use. The yard was redeveloped as Yoker Depot.
However, in 1988, track was relaid for a short period. Imported coal trains ran to Kincardine Power Station. After this brief revival, the line was abandoned again.
Today, an oil depot operates from the north quay. A marina is at the east end of Rothesay Dock. Clyde Boatyard provides marine services. The site continues its maritime legacy.
Reflect on the changes Rothesay Dock has seen. From coal and iron ore to oil rigs and modern boating facilities. It stands as a testament to Clydebank’s industrial history and adaptability. The Prince of Wales would be proud to see Rothesay Dock still contributes to the area’s economy today.