Share offer launched to fund Severn Valley Railway

One of the biggest re-development projects in the history of the Severn Valley Railway is firmly on track after being granted planning permission.

The go-ahead from Shropshire County Council will herald the start of an ambitious three-phase redevelopment project – the most significant in SVR’s  51-year history – to dramatically improve facilities at Bridgnorth, the railway’s northern terminus.

“This will create a welcoming station and a fitting gateway to the Severn Valley Railway and the town of Bridgnorth,” a spokesman from SVR explained.

“The entire project is estimated to cost around £5 million and news of the planning approval has triggered the launch of an extensive fund-raising campaign. 

“This November sees the launch of a 2016 share offer with a sole focus on raising funds for the Bridgnorth Project. 

“With 2.5 million shares available at a price of £1 each, proceeds will support ambitious plans to deliver much-improved visitor facilities whilst at the same time conserving and enhancing the line’s main destination station.”

Much of Bridgnorth’s infrastructure and facilities date back to 1862. They are in need of conservation and considered enhancement to cope with the sheer volume of passengers visiting the railway, the spokesman added.

“Phase one of the re-development will consist of two projects,” the spokesman continued.

“The first will see the construction of a single-storey building to the south of the existing Bridgnorth station building, housing a traditional tea/refreshment room, while new toilet facilities will also be housed within this building.

“The second project will focus on the conservation of a unique piece of railway history as the listed station building will undergo repairs and sensitive improvement. The works package will include an extension of the bar and seating area in the Railwayman’s Arms public house, the relocation and renewal of retail and heritage areas, a new disabled toilet and the restoration of the 150 year-old Booking Hall, returning it to its former glory.

“The second phase of the project, and subject to available funding, will include further development of the Bridgnorth station site.

“Of particular interest to the public will be the installation of a turntable in the locomotive yard which will allow locomotives to be turned in full view of passengers and onlookers.

“Also in this phase will be the creation of an additional car park, with a one-way system and new exit driveway to Oldbury Road.  

“The third phase will comprise the construction of a 53-bed volunteer accommodation building, though funding to complete the substantial works first needs to be secured.”