£475,000 has been raised for desperately needed improvements to the Severn Valley Railway‘s locomotive works at Bridgnorth in Shropshire.

The Severn Valley Railway Charitable Trust has announced that the fund has reached its target thanks to the generosity of 3,000 donors and grant makers from around the world.

Plans to transform the locomotive works are now progressing. The roof critically needs repair as it is full of holes and leaking badly. As well as being be repaired, energy-efficiency measures will be installed, and better lighting and insulation.

Another welcome part of the project will be the installation of an overhead travelling crane, which will allow engineers working on locomotives to move heavy items safely and easily.

Following detailed evaluations of competitive bids submitted by shortlisted companies, four contractors have been selected to carry out the works. A particular focus will be to deliver the requirements effectively and safely in a live working environment. The works are due to be completed later this year.

Pivotal to the project are the railway’s volunteers, who have committed over £40,000 worth of time in addition to donations. The project will be managed under the expert supervision of volunteers who include a professional structural engineer and project manager, one with experience with contracts and project programming, and a qualified architect.

Martin White, the SVR’s head of engineering. Said “This project is going to make a huge difference to the volunteers and paid staff who work hard to keep the locomotive fleet operational.

“Volunteers are already clearing the way and carrying out small-scale construction activities that need to be completed before the main contractors’ work begins. A deposit has also been placed on a refurbished, second-hand overhead crane which offers a great value solution to requirements.”

Shelagh Paterson, executive director for the SVR Charitable Trust said, “Thank you to all the donors who, in spite of the challenges of the Covid pandemic, rallied around to help raise funds for the Home & Dry appeal. The locomotive works are vital to the running of the Severn Valley Railway, helping create memorable experiences for so many people. We’re looking forward to seeing the transformation.”