£2.5m share scheme launched by Severn Valley Railway

Severn Valley Railway has today made 2.5 million shares available with proceeds used to support plans to deliver an improved visitor facilities.

The shares are available at a price of £1 each, with proceeds being used solely to support the Bridgnorth Station development.

The project is one of the biggest in the history of the Severn Valley Railway, and is estimated that it will cost around £5 million. It was recently given the go-ahead by Shropshire Council.

Widely credited with being the ‘Birthplace of the SVR’, much of Bridgnorth’s infrastructure and facilities date back to 1862, they are in need of conservation and considered enhancement to cope with the sheer volume of passengers visiting the Railway.

Phase one of the re-development will consist of two projects– the first, the construction of a Great Western Railway c1900 style single-storey building to the south of the existing Bridgnorth station building, housing a traditional tea/refreshment room where visitors can relax and enjoy refreshments while waiting for their train. New toilet facilities will also be housed within this building.

The second project will focus on the conservation of a unique piece of railway history as the listed station building will undergo repairs and sensitive improvement. The works package will include an extension of the bar and seating area in the Railwayman’s Arms public house, the relocation and renewal of retail and heritage areas, a new disabled toilet and the restoration of the 150 year-old Booking Hall, returning it to its former glory.

The second phase of the project, and subject to available funding, will include further development of the Bridgnorth station site. Of particular interest to the public will be the installation of a turntable in the locomotive yard which will allow locomotives to be turned in full view of passengers and onlookers- a spectacle often hidden from public view.

Also in this phase will be the creation of an additional car park, with a one-way system and new exit driveway to Oldbury Road. The third phase will comprise the construction of a 53-bed volunteer accommodation building, though funding to complete the substantial works first needs to be secured.

For more information on the share offer visit http://www.svr.co.uk/ShareOffer1.aspx