Full steam ahead with rail link project
A GROUP of vintage railway enthusiasts from Robertsbridge are attempting to re-live the glory days of steam, which could bring economic prosperity back to the area.
The Rother Valley Railway, based at Robertsbridge station, is working hard to re-build a line which last saw service in 1954.
The aim is to link Robertsbridge with Bodiam as part of the famous Kent & East Sussex Railway which is currently operational as far as Tenterden. With much of the track missing, volunteers have their work cut out to complete the project, but are determined to revive the line.
David Felton, chairman of the charitable trust, outlines their plans and describes what this could mean to the village.
He said: "After years of seeing this famous old line in disrepair, a group of us thought it would be nice to see if we could get it up and running again.
"The exciting prospect is to put the railway back to Robertsbridge and connect up to the main line.
"We are planning to start public train rides next spring on a half-mile length of track and we are hoping to keep the old skills alive.
"The entire project will take time, but we are full steam ahead now."
With plans to restore the 3.3 mile route to Bodiam, David reveals there are some problems to resolve.
Despite purchasing the land either end of the line, the middle stretch is privately owned and it was feared permission to lay the track bed would be denied.
But after backing from Rother District Council, the railway was included on their ten year local plan which should enable work to continue.
The organisation boasts a membership of over 130, with a band of volunteers working most weekends.
Despite only having a few members from a railway background, helpers mainly consist of enthusiastic amateurs who are grateful for the expert help they have been offered.
The project already has a number of rolling stock, including four locomotives which are currently under repair.
The company has also received donations of track and other supplies essential to the work, including help from Betteshanger colliery and the South East Development project.
Directors believe once the line is open to the public, the village will prosper from the visitors it will attract.
Mr. Felton continues: "Our hope is that once the railway is operational, it will be to the economic benefit of Robertsbridge and really boost the local economy.
"Since the Robertsbridge by-pass, the village has been a bit of a backwater, but as other vintage railways have seen, the visitors will come and use the local shops and benefit businesses. We believe this will prove very popular."
David says they are applying for funding, but have survived on the deep pockets of members and the generosity of individuals determined to see the project completed.
Rother Valley Railway runs a caf and gift shop at their base and would like to hear from anyone interested in joining the team.
Further details can be obtained by telephoning 01580 881833.
Alternatively, they can be reached on-line at rothervalleyrailway.co.uk.
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Sunday 05 February 2012
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