Building contracts signed for Severn Valley Railway depot
Construction contracts for the Severn Valley Railway's long-awaited diesel locomotive maintenance depot have been signed.
The diesel locomotive maintenance depot will provide undercover storage and maintenance facilities to help the line preserve its fleet of heritage diesel locomotives, many of which are now more than 50-years-old.
The depot, occupying part of the Kidderminster Yard next to the carriage shed, has long been a key part of the line's plans for developing the site, which sits just south of the Kidderminster Town Station.
Maintenance of diesel rolling stock was previously completed outside by volunteers in all weather, who will now be able to work under cover after C21 Construction Limited agreed to carry out the work.
The company, based in mid-Wales, provides full project-management support for the SVR.
Nick Ralls, the SVR's general manager, said: "This is a vital improvement to our infrastructure, and recognition of the importance of preserving heritage diesel locomotives as well as our extensive fleet of steam locomotives."
The diesel locomotives provide timetabled support on around 10 per cent of the railway's annual services with an annual diesel gala in the autumn providing the chance for enthusiasts to travel behind a variety of diesel locomotive types.
The diesel locomotives also provide the motive power to shunt empty rolling stock around the railway, as well as providing haulage for any trains that undertake repairs and maintenance to track and structures during the winter months.
Jonathan Dunster, chairman of the diesel committee, which is heading up the project, said: "The railway is home to around 20 diesel locomotives.
"The new depot provides us with a quality location to maintain and run them. It's a huge step forward."
The new depot will provide about 1,000 square metres of covered accommodation and will consist of two locomotive inspection pits, lifting jacks and a 10 tonne overhead travelling crane.
Building work on the new depot is expected to be finished by the summer of 2015.
Anyone interested in supporting projects on the SVR is asked to visit www.svrtrust.org.uk
