Latest stage of Rheidol’s terminus redevelopment project gets underway

THE next phase of the Vale of Rheidol Railway’s (VoR) transformation of its Aberystwyth terminus has commenced.

The previous phase saw completion of the heritage rolling stock protection shed (RM, November 2020) followed by connection of the tracks into the three-road building, and movement of the rolling stock from the old ex-standard gauge loco shed into the new building.

With the old loco shed empty, the steelwork and brick walls have been sand blasted to clear decades of dirt and soot. A large section of wall opposite VoR’s car park has been removed (to be replaced by glass panels) with the landward end also opened up, both being to increase light within the structure. The building will become a multi-purpose display space with exhibits from the VoR’s extensive locomotive collection.

The foundations have also been constructed for the new booking office and shop. This will replace the current temporary shop and booking office building, which will be relocated to the other side of the tracks and become a catering facility.

VoR carriage No. 11, built at Swindon in 1938 as No. 4995, was unveiled to the press and tourism representatives on

May 20, following extensive rebuilding. The first class passenger section of the braked vehicle has observation windows at the Aberystwyth end with free standing chairs and folding tables. The guard’s compartment incorporates doors providing wheelchair access leading into the passenger area.

The team which undertook the restoration and fitting out has started on VoR coach No. 12. It will be completed to the same first class standard as No. 11.