WORK is finally set to begin on delivering the return of the Poole Park Railway service.
BCP Council has confirmed that contractors will commence work on site during the first week in December.
Track Systems, based in Shropshire, secured a contract for the project to provide a new track and engine shed following a tender process.
As reported, BCP Council is aiming to have the service back in operation for next summer.
Councillor Mark Anderson, BCP Council portfolio holder for environment, cleansing and waste, said: “Getting Poole Park Railway up and running again has been a commitment we wanted to fulfil since the service was suspended in 2018.
“Rejuvenating Poole is a key priority of us and bringing the railway back on track reinforces this commitment. It is a special asset, which has been a feature since 1949, and I’m so pleased that we will soon see it back in action.”
The council said works are likely to continue on site throughout the winter and are not expected to be completed before April 2022.
Demolition of the engine shed and removal of the current track is planned prior to Christmas.
In the new year, work will begin to construct the new track, along with a brand new engine shed.
A public information event will be held on Tuesday, December 7, from 12pm to 3pm, in The Ark in Poole Park. Residents are welcome to attended and take a look at the plans, meet the contractor and speak with council officers involved with the project.
Cllr Mark Anderson, added: “I urge people to come along and hear more about the project if they are interested. I’m sure that many people will be keen to learn more about the new track and the future plans for this special attraction.”
Alternatively, questions or feedback can be emailed to l.recreationdevelopment@bcpcouncil.gov.uk or by calling 01202 123888.
As reported, earlier this year the local authority said a budget of £350,000 had been set aside with a target of having the attraction back open by December.
However, following the tender process for the track and engine shed, BCP Council said next summer was the new goal, by which point the service would have been out of action for four years.
When trains are back on the tracks, the railway will be run by volunteers and the council’s own environment team.
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