Now that the dust has settled after the election, and rules around purdah lifted, we can tell you all about the hive of activity at DLW at the start of June!
In the first weekend in June, 507 STRE (Railway Infrastructure) Royal Engineers returned to Darlington Locomotive Works (DLW) to continue their track laying training, and assist the A1 Steam Locomotive Trust putting tracks in place around the new Works site. 507 Specialist Team Royal Engineers (STRE) are an Army Reserve unit that specialises in the repair and construction of railway infrastructure. They recruit from the railway industry and are based in Nottingham.
During the weekend's impressive efforts, over 110m of plain line was laid, and a vital set of points positioned, leading off site to connect with the main line. Please scroll down for more photographs from the weekend.
The Army is due to come back to DLW to lay much more track on an extended exercise this autumn. In November, it is planned that 26 Field Squadron of 32 Engineer Regiment will spend a number of weeks on site, with the intention of laying all remaining plain line track (around 750m, completing the stretch from DLW to the main line). Before then, we must raise funds to secure the 4000 additional tons of ballast required, or this opportunity will be lost. The ballast would ideally be laid in September, well ahead of the track laying, as good weather allows.
We ask that you consider sponsoring a 28t wagon load for £630, and join phase two of the P-Way Gang.
Read on for more information and follow the links to donate. Thank you all for your interest and support as we make the new Works work for our locomotives.
From the roof of DLW, a view of the track laid so far.
How to support The Ballast Appeal and sign up to The P-Way Gang:
The easiest way to sign up is via our website here.
Alternatively, you can download the new Standing Order Form here.
Almost 50 people have already contributed, with over 1000t of ballast now on site, and more ordered for delivery.
If you have any questions or would like to donate over the phone, please contact the Office on 01325 488215 or email enquiries@a1steam.com
Thank you for your support as we take on this exciting challenge to help secure the future of operations at our Darlington home.
Work continuing on finishing the turnout between Otley Terrace and DLW. The majority of baseplates are now installed.
Closure rails and check rail are still to be cut, drilled and installed when we next have plant available.
507 STRE (Railway Infrastructure) Royal Engineers installing a Cv9.25 turnout in early June.
507 STRE laying out Concrete Sleepers in advance of main works.
Plain line installation, on a very hot Saturday afternoon.
Turnout 75% complete. The gate on the right will (hopefully) be the network connection to the Bishop Auckland branch.