CLEVEDON’S disused miniature railway is to be revived by the daughter of the line’s previous operator. Robin Jones reports…
North Somerset Council has appointed Emma Coles and her family to the helm of the once much-loved attraction, alongside announcing a wider programme of rejuvenation at Salthouse Fields and Clevedon seafront.
Last September, the council began searching for a new operator to restore and run the overgrown miniature railway and develop new facilities on Salthouse Fields as part of its wider Great Lakes Project, supporting improvements to the resort’s Marine Lake and seafront.
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COLES FAMILY / NSC
The 9½in gauge line opened at Clevedon in 1952 using a Bassett-Lowke 4-4-2 previously used in Cleethorpes. Originally an out-and-back two-carriage operation, it was extended into a circuit in 1962.
In 1976, a Rio Grande 2-8-0 petrol locomotive, bought by Emma’s late father Len Harvey, arrived from Severn Lamb, and all the other equipment was sold off. In 2013, a new operator regauged the line to 15in with a new battery-electric locomotive.
Previously known as the Rio Grande Miniature Railway, it has been disused since the last trains ran in 2019.
Emma said the line will be rebuilt and operated by herself and her husband Steven Coles, their sons Jonson and Lennon, and their daughter Evie, who will take charge of the station café.
They have ordered a new locomotive, a version of a Rio Grande C19 2-8-0, from specialist engineering firm The Steam Workshop in Liversedge, West Yorkshire. It built battery-electric Bo-Bo No. 60 Electra — the first of its kind in the UK — for the Audley End Miniature Railway and is completing another for that venue, a fully electric steam-outline locomotive, as reported last issue.
EMMA COLES
The Coles family is set to regauge the Clevedon line to 10¼in before the C19 arrives.
A council statement said: “Following a robust and competitive process, the Coles family was selected for its vision, local roots and commitment to community values.
“The decision marks a major milestone in reinstating one of Clevedon’s most cherished attractions, enjoyed by generations of families and visitors for more than half a century.
“The Coles family will take forward an ambitious vision for the site, delivering improvements for residents and visitors alike.
“They bring strong experience of family-run catering and leisure ventures and will breathe new life into this important part of Clevedon’s seafront.”
THE STEAM WORKSHOP
Great plans
“Their plan includes a restored and fully operational Rio Grande miniature railway, a new indoor station café, replacing temporary facilities used in recent years, the redevelopment of the adventure golf course and a refreshed children’s rides area.”
In April, Emma was interviewed on local BBC news programme Points West about the family’s proposal to revive the line as a major tourist attraction.
A family statement said: “We are delighted to bring the Rio Grande back to Salthouse Fields — a place that holds so many childhood memories for us. This is much more than a business opportunity; it is the chance to continue a tradition started by our father Len and was, until recently, carried on by our late brother Simon.
“While we know there is much work ahead, we are committed to revitalising the site while respecting its heritage and creating something special for future generations.”
Coun Mike Solomon, the council’s cabinet member for culture, community services and safety, said: “We know how much the Rio Grande means to the people of Clevedon and beyond, and we are thrilled to welcome the Coles family as the new operator for Salthouse Fields. Their personal connection to the railway and plans for improving the site align perfectly with our vision for a vibrant, welcoming seafront. This is wonderful news for residents, visitors, and anyone with fond memories of the railway.”
The family will also welcome volunteers who want to help rebuild and run the line.
Anyone interested is invited to email [email protected]
