MORE RAILWAYS EXPECT TO REMAIN IN HIBERNATION FOR REST OF 2020
Several preserved lines are still not expecting to run in 2020, despite the easing of lockdown – including the Telford Steam Railway, which has cancelled its ‘Polar Express’ trains.
The TSR board’s decision to scratch the series of Christmas specials was taken because the possibility of reducing loadings for social distancing could make it unviable, explained chairman Paul Hughes: “The profit comes out at the top end, and it is a very expensive event to put on.”
He confirmed, “I can’t see us looking to operate this year,” partly because “we’re in mid-flow with track renewals – the track is out leading into Spring Village station.
“Volunteers are back in to pick it up – but by the time it’s all sorted, it’ll be easier just to say next year.”
However, he added, “we’re certainly financially in a position to weather the storm till next year, though it will eat into the reserves.”
Like its Cornish counterpart, the Bodmin & Wenford Railway (SR507), the Helston Railway does not expect to run again for most, if not all, of 2020.
Chairman James Packman said: “Tourists are starting to turn up again – it’s starting to liven up – but I don’t see us operating until maybe Christmas, and even then it’ll be much reduced.
“The problem with reopening is more the retail side than operations – all the volunteers are the wrong side of 70, and don’t want to come back until it’s all done and dusted.
The Mid-Suffolk Light Railway is also remaining closed until further notice, amid concerns that its compact nature would make social distancing too difficult – its pub, for instance, is housed in a grounded coach body.
However, the railway reports that it will be able to survive the loss of income “thanks to excellent financial management and central government support.” The latter grant funding, paid via Mid-Suffolk District Council, consists of a five-figure sum and, in the words of the line’s marketing manager John Reeve, “would more or less compensate for lack of cash flow over the whole summer season if we have to stay closed.”
The ‘Middy’ has been able to make progress on some projects despite the lockdown, including the provision of a footbridge to its picnic area at Dovebrook, and Mid-Suffolk District Council has approved the route of a footpath across the line – meaning that its extension to Aspall Halt can continue.