‘B17’ NEW-BUILD GROUPS MEET TO CLARIFY PROJECT DIFFERENCES

Steam Railway’s new-build analysis has prompted both of the organisations attempting to replicate an LNER ‘B17’ to address the “confusion” over their respective objectives.

The B17 Steam Locomotive Trust (which is building No. 61673 Spirit of Sandringham) and the North British Locomotive Preservation Group (which is currently assembling a static replica of No. 61662 Manchester United) have issued a joint statement intended to clarify their aims and objectives.

It says: “Following an article in Steam Railway on current new-build steam locomotive projects in this country, there has been a certain amount of confusion as to why we might be trying to build two new ‘B17’ locomotives, and how we could sustain such proposals.

“In order to clarify the situation for all concerned, the directors of the NBLPG 61662 Project and the B17SLT have met and agreed the following statement.

“No. 61662 Manchester United is currently a full size ‘mock-up’ representing the cab, boiler, smokebox and bufferbeam with a planned completion date of 2019. This representation does not include wheels, frames or motion at the present time. The mock-up includes an LNER Group Standard tender rescued from a scrapyard. Funding so far has predominantly been from Manchester United FC and their supporters.

“When this representation is complete, there is the intention to seek support from Manchester United FC and its supporters by way of an appeal for funds in order to determine if an operational version could be produced.

“No. 61673 Spirit of Sandringham is a full-size locomotive and tender produced to a defined design in accordance with current Rail Authority Regulations to be certified for main line running.

“Construction of the static mainframe is complete and the next phase is to complete the ‘rolling chassis’. All parts are made in Britain where possible, and planned completion is due to be in 2028 with the locomotive certified and running by 2029.

“Funding for the project comes directly from members of the trust and from public donations, gifts and legacies. Appeals are launched for specific parts as well as membership of the 61673 Constructors Club.

“It should be noted that the 61662 Project is primarily focused on Manchester United FC and their football supporters, whereas the B17SLT is open to the public and enthusiasts of all kinds. Indeed, the management of NBLPG have been kind enough to recommend that all members of the public and railway enthusiasts interested in seeing a new operational ‘B17’ locomotive should look at the B17SLT website for information.

“On occasion, NBLPG has also been kind enough to offer the B17SLT contributions for its sales stand.”