SGLR unlikely to reopen in 2021 following rock fall

STEEPLE Grange Light Railway (SGLR) believes it is unlikely to resume passenger operations this year. The 18in gauge line did not run any public services during 2020 due to Covid-19, and plans to reopen in 2021 were disrupted by a February rock fall (RM, April).

Contractors have been clearing vegetation and loose rock, with volunteers removing the resulting debris. A specialists’ report and quotations for further remedial work, including installing steel wire mesh on the rock faces above the railway, have been obtained. There are further cutting faces uphill from

Darklane Quarry where rock de-scaling may be required, and about 30 ash trees potentially affected by ash dieback disease may need to be felled, plus the specialists’ report recommends biennial rock face inspections.

While the SGLR has received grants which will aid reopening preparations, dealing with the rock faces carries a considerable cost for the small organisation and an appeal for donations has been launched. Reopening will be conditional on competency testing and record-keeping while still dealing with the rock issues, hence reopening in 2021 seems unlikely.