Charity takes over ownership of Weardale Railway

The Weardale Railway has been acquired by The Auckland Project from former owner British American Rail Services, after the latter went into administration earlier this year.

The charity, which has invested £200 million in the region around Bishop Auckland, will work with staff of the former Weardale Railway Community Interest Company and volunteers of the Weardale Railway Trust, as well as Durham County Council. It is seeking a partnership with a train operating company to resume train services.

The Auckland Project Chief Executive David Maddan said: “The North East’s magnificent industrial heritage offers a unique opportunity for change. By linking with other major transport infrastructure projects and working with partners, including the dedicated team at the Weardale Railway Trust, we can ensure an immediate impact is felt right across the Tees Valley and throughout County Durham.”

Kevin Richardson, chairman of the Weardale Railway Trust, added: “We at Weardale Railway Trust were initially disappointed when the previous owners announced the decision to offer Weardale Railway for sale.

“We had enjoyed a successful relationship which has been beneficial to both parties. However, the arrangement had not been without its difficulties, particularly given the six-hour time difference between Chicago and the UK.

“We were delighted, therefore, to learn that The Auckland Project had taken over ownership of the railway. To bring the line back into local ownership will, we feel, be a major positive step. We believe that doing so will encourage local people to join us in preserving this important part of our local heritage.

“We have followed the progress of The Auckland Project with great interest. Here we have an organisation which has already proven at Bishop Auckland what commitment and vision can achieve. Their aspirations for the railway are very impressive and we look forward to working with them to take the Weardale Railway into the next chapter of its fascinating history.”

The Weardale Railway runs from Bishop Auckland into the heart of Weardale. The Auckland Project says it hopes to reinstate the western section of the Stockton & Darlington Railway, which celebrates its bicentenary in 2025.