Bluebell to build miniature line
New railway at Sheffield Park aims to boost young volunteer recruitment and community engagement for Bluebell Railway.
WITH planning permission in place, the Bluebell Railway (BR) is to construct a 7¼in gauge passenger-carrying miniature railway by the picnic site at Sheffield Park station. Among the many reasons for this project is that the construction of the railway will become a focal point for new and existing young Bluebell Railway volunteers. There will be close ties with the BR’s 9F Club, which channels the enthusiasm of young people into steam loco preservation.
The 7¼in gauge line will be self-funding on an operational basis. There will be a project office and a ‘go-to centre’ for updates, recruitment and educational visits. An outdoor activity centre based around Chris Vine’s ‘Peter’s Railway’ adventures will be established.
Operation
There will be close integration with the BR’s operational teams such as engineering, S&T and P Way with the final form of the miniature railway operated in accordance with full-size practice. It is hoped local model engineers, some of whom may already be Bluebell volunteers, will become involved with the project.
The railway will have its own engineering workshop supporting servicing and training, allowing technical mentoring for under 16s. Costeffective local school visits and outreach to local youth groups will be pursued.
Projects which young people can take on as individuals, such as wagon building, signal construction and locomotive maintenance, will be developed.
It is believed the miniature railway will increase the volume of young people visiting the Bluebell, as well as opening up the engagement options to keep them involved.
Peter Dickson has been appointed project manager for the new railway with the view of spearheading a drive to engage with young people and families.
This will help sustain the Bluebell volunteer force and further grow the educational and community reach for the railway.
Support
Mr Dickson’s own personal project, Train 2 Train, seeks to encourage practical young people and open their eyes to the hobby and career possibilities within the rail industry. It has supported the building of a 5in gauge line at the Nene Valley Railway’s Wansford station.
There is also scope for a portable railway to visit outside events to raise awareness of the Bluebell project.