It’s now over four years since full-sized trains carried passengers on our once popular heritage railway line south of Ruddington.
The tough restrictions at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020 brought a halt to all activities at Nottingham Transport Heritage Centre on Mere Way, including the weekend steam and diesel services operated by the volunteers at Great Central Railway (Nottingham) (GCRN). Other setbacks since have meant these trains still haven’t restarted.
One of these setbacks is a small bridge on the Nottinghamshire section of the railway which was found to be in need of repair. ‘Bridge 302A’ is approximately half way between Ruddington and East Leake on the line. Whilst it’s only a small structure, the repair work is expected to cost around £30,000 and structural engineers advised it must be completed before it can carry passenger trains again. Thankfully work is now underway and contractors have now lifted the rails from the bridge (top photo) so these repairs can begin.
Andy Fillingham from GCRN says: “We’re working hard to return heritage passenger trains to the line, so our visitors can explore this part of the world. A lot of our ‘to do’ list has been ticked off but reparing Bridge 302A is one last remaining hurdle. Our supporters have already raised £2,000 towards the expected £30,000 cost and it’s good to report work is now underway. We’re very grateful to everyone who is contributing to reviving the railway, part of the ambitious scheme to reconnect Leicester and Nottinghamshire with heritage trains.”
Donations to support the Bridge 302A repair programme can be made via the LNER(GC) Heritage Trust >>HERE<<.
