The Leighton Buzzard Railway has entered its 50th anniversary year with a vital new lease – and is going full steam ahead with its extension plans.
However, it needs another £59,000 to see trains running again to the proposed new destination of Double Arches.
As part of its plans to extend beyond Stonehenge Works, the 2ft gauge former sand-carrying line has been working closely with Arnold White Estates, owner of the sand quarries and much of the land on which the railway operates.
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The result of these discussions is a new partnership that will deliver a new 250 year lease for the whole line, including the extension, an immediate cash injection and the promise of additional investment as and when the quarries are worked out and redeveloped.
The line has secured a £47,000 Leader funding award for its extension project. The grant includes a £34,000 contribution towards the costs of the extension, plus a new coach and improvements to facilities at Stonehenge Works.
The Leader fund is an EU programme worth a total of £138 million for funding of projects that create jobs, help businesses to grow and benefit the rural and tourism economy.
Read more in Issue 237 of HR – on sale now!
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