WITH planning permission in place, the Bluebell Railway (BR) is to construct a 7¼in gauge passenger-carrying miniature railway by the picnic site at Sheffield Park station. Among the many reasons for this project is that the construction of the railway will become a focal point for new and existing young Bluebell Railway volunteers. There will be close ties with the BR’s 9F Club, which channels the enthusiasm of young people into steam loco preservation.
The 7¼in gauge line will be self-funding on an operational basis. There will be a project office and a ‘go-to centre’ for updates, recruitment and educational visits. An outdoor activity centre based around Chris Vine’s ‘Peter’s Railway’ adventures will be established.