Project News

The bubble car was built in 1960, being given BR number 55025 and later designated Type 121. It was in public service until 1993 when it was converted to Departmental use. Subsequently it was cannibalised for spares. Much work is needed as seats had been removed, some doors welded shut, large diesel engines had been installed for driving auxillary equipment, and propulsion equipment must be replaced.

It is ownd by the DPR Carriage Group, arriving at Long Marston in May 2016. See picture in Gallery / Concept.

We continue to work on several different fronts. One very important area is negotiating with Railway Paths for the land the railway will need. Fortunately, we have within the team people who are able to specify the minimum gauging requirements and a highly skilled engineer providing the many drawings.

Beyond this, to succeed in the Transfer of Powers under the Transport & Works Act, other hurdles must be jumped but for the technical side we have experts available. Alongside, we will have to provide evidence of absence of local objections. We would prefer  to show positive support as we have to provide what people want, otherwise the railway will not be used.

We are also considering various commercial projects as we know the railway will not be able to pay for itself through fares. Naturally, we expect competition so unfortunately we cannot tell you of any details yet, rest assured that we will be thrilled to publish when there is news. The Train Simulator in conjunction with Dovetail Games was our first attempt and that has proved highly successful. 

There was a meeting of local residents on Thursday 28th July and there was an expression of concern about road congestion. Olly Wise of the Railway explained how the railway could ease this and how parking would be provided. The inpacts were  discussed, effects on wildlife, house prices, noise ,and  also the potential benefits for tourism, possible café and bike repair suggested.

A vote was held and of those present, only one did not support the project.

The Railway presented its possible plans to Radstock Town Council on 18th July, using the Train Simulator which is sufficiently accurate to calculate timings between Radstock and Frome (non-stop would be around 10 minutes, if stopping at Kilmersdon and Mells Road an additional 3 minutes would be needed!). All stakeholders are currently being consulted and the role of Franchising was described. It would be feasible for a train to Frome to continue to Westbury or even Cardiff. Mendip District Council are interested in the concept of transporting the Mells Road CPM concrete raw materials and products in and  out by rail instead of road. Costs will be contained by using volunteer professionals: already plans and formal reports have been prepared which would otherwise cost many millions. The Company summed up by stating that now is the last opportunity for a railway: the Council then voted unanimously to support the projects transport and work order transfer.

When the shareholders met, the proposal  for the detail (shown elsewhere) of the new Memorandum and Articles was passed unanimously. The necessary documents will now be submitted to the appropriate body.