Contractors have begun essential repair work on a small bridge on the Nottinghamshire section of the Great Central Railway (GCR).
Bridge 302A is approximately half way between Ruddington and East Leake, and is one of the last remaining hurdles to returning trains to the line between Nottingham Heritage Transport Centre (NTHC) and Rushcliffe Halt.
While it’s only a small structure, the repair work is expected to cost around £30,000 and must be completed before the line can carry passenger trains again. Contractors have now lifted the rails from the bridge so repairs can begin.
Andy Fillingham from Great Central Railway (Nottingham) said: “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 repairing 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’s contributing to reviving the railway, which is 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 at www.lnergctrust.org.
Editor’s note:
In related news, the reunification project recently achieved another key milestone when GCR submitted formal planning applications to Charnwood Borough Council for the 18-mile scheme. You can read the full story at the RUDDINGTON.info website here: www.ruddington.info/railway-reunification-planning-application-submitted-july2024/.