Train line extension plans hit the buffers

AMBITIOUS plans for one of north Wales’ “great little trains” have hit the buffers.

For the past nine years, Bala Lake Railway Trust has been aiming to extend the track from Penybont, on the lakeshore, to a new terminus close to the town centre.

More than £1.4m has been spent on land acquisition and drawing up plans for the project, comprising 1,200 metres of track, a level crossing, new station building, signal box and engine and carriage buildings.

But now members of the Eryri

National Park Authority’s planning committee are being recommended to reject the scheme.

Though discussions have been held with various authorities over the years, officers say there are still concerns about the possible effect on the Special Area of Conservation.

In a report to next week’s meeting, officers say there is insufficient information about noise mitigation measures, the visual impact of the station building and locomotive shed, the impact on neighbouring properties and the highway network.

Officers say that while the new station could help regenerate that part of the town and enhance the Conservation Area, it needed to be carefully designed.

Dwr Cymru has also objected on the grounds that the development will be over several public sewerage and water mains to which access is required at all times.

Bala Town Council is supporting the development, believing it will boost the economy of the area, but Llangywer Community Council has raised concerns about queues on the

B4403 as trains cross over.

Some residents living close to the proposed track have also objected to possible noise and pollution.

Julian Birley from the Bala Lake Railway Trust issued a statement arguing that the fears over possible pollution are unfounded.

He said: “It is imperative that to avoid a possible refusal after so much time and money has been invested in the project - nine years and £1.4m that the trust be offered the widest level of support from the local community and beyond.”