THE Bluebell Railway’s new interactive locomotive exhibition, SteamWorks! is now open
Andrew Blessley, a Heritage Lottery Fund South-East committee member, and the Bluebell’s Roger Kelly, threw open the doors of the attraction on October 19 at 1.30pm.
This marked the completion of the first phase of the railway’s three-year ASH (Accessible Steam Heritage) project.
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The aim of the project is not only improving the display of some of the pioneer standard gauge heritage line’s locomotives, but also to provide a wider educational and interactive experience for visitors, while provision has also been made for better accessibility for those with restricted mobility.
The project, which has cost £1.5 million overall, was made possible thanks to a grant of £1.1 million from the lottery, plus additional financial, labour and other contributions from supporters. Phase 1, which includes a £350,000 renovation and extension to the locomotive running shed, made it possible to create a home for the £200,000 permanent SteamWorks! exhibition.
Read more in Issue 248 of HR – on sale now!
