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Full steam ahead for new £1.5m extension

A STEAM RAILWAY that carries more than 23,000 passengers each year is extending its line in an ambitious £1.5m project

South Tynedale Railway (STR) is Northern England’s highest narrow-gauge railway and has been managed and operated by enthusiastic volunteers since the 1970s.

It currently makes a one hour trip from Alston to Kirkhaugh during eight months of the year. Now, with the help of a £75,000 grant from North Pennine Dales LEADER (NPDL), used to purchase hardwood sleepers, rail and 900 tons of ballast needed for track works, the railway is being extended 2.5 miles up the South Tyne Valley towards Slaggyford.

The project will make the line much more accessible from the A69 and M6, increase passenger numbers and has already created eight jobs.

Sue Ellwood, project co-ordinator for North Pennine Dales LEADER, said: “We support projects that improve the quality of rural life by boosting the local economy, creating employment, supporting local businesses or providing training.

“This project achieves a number of those aims and we are delighted to be able to support the dedicated and professional volunteers behind it.”

The first phase is due for completion in 2011, taking passengers from Kirkhaugh to Lintley Halt, and will cost around £450,000.

The second and final 1.5 mile phase into Slaggyford could, subject to further funding, be completed as early as 2015.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .