Bala Lake buys key land for its town centre extension push
IN the year that marks 50 years of the 2ft gauge line’s operation, the Bala Lake Railway Trust has completed the purchase of a crucial piece of land required for the eagerly awaited town centre extension.
The land, acquired after seven years of complicated and protracted negotiation, is adjacent to the new station site and will accommodate the station throat and ancillary sidings.
The trust now has all the land needed for the extension, apart from a very small 500sqm plot.
With a decision on the planning application due by early summer, and Natural Resources Wales having already started earlier in the year on the newly upgraded flood defences, which includes the civil engineering works required for the new railway, the project really is gathering steam very fast.
Liz Saville Roberts MP and Mabon ap Gwynfor MS said: “We welcome news that Rheilffordd Llyn Tegid has secured the purchase of land required to push ahead with its ambitious expansion plans, which will see trains terminating in the centre of town.
“Rheilffordd Llyn Tegid is one of our great local attractions – bringing investment to the Penllyn economy, supporting jobs and local businesses, and is a leading voice in the heritage railway industry.
“It has been proactive in involving the local community throughout the development phase of its proposals and it is encouraging to hear that people and businesses in Bala are looking forward to seeing the plans finally take shape.”