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| Home | Stratford Project Introduction | Site | Project Launch | Plans | ||||
| Stratford Steam Centre Project >Plans | ||||
Plans For New Steam Railway Tourist Centre Below is an artists sketch
& notes about the proposed Stratford Railway Tourist Centre
& Steam Locomotive Centre |
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The plans aim to transform a currently derelict site adjacent to Stratford train station into an exciting new tourist attraction for the town, celebrating the area’s rich steam heritage. Within easy walking distance of the town centre, the new facility would include a fully equipped working steam complex, giving visitors the chance to see classic engines being maintained, serviced and turned. A mixture of modern architecture and history, the design of the new structure includes the sympathetic incorporation of a real piece of railway history - a 1909 listed Great Western Railway building façade salvaged from the construction of Bullring, Birmingham. The visitor centre will explain the history of the steam trains and their role in the West Midlands today in a clear and interesting way for all the family, with the additional educational facility for students and schoolchildren providing more in-depth information. As Vic Michel of BRMT explains: "This project will bring an additional tourist attraction right into the centre of Stratford. Steam Trains continue to fascinate people of all ages, and seeing – or travelling on - a restored train at mainline speeds of up to 75mph, is so exciting, a superb way to recapture England’s great heritage. BRMT currently runs the Shakespeare Express steam train service between Birmingham and Stratford on Sundays in July, August and September, and this facility will provide yet another reason for people to visit the town." The 1909 GWR Goods Yard façade has been donated by The Birmingham Alliance, developers of Bullring, who will also fully finance its installation. Volunteers : Whilst planning & funding arrangements are being pursued, a site working party is to be formed from volunteer members of Vintage Trains Society - the volunteer group that supports BRMT activities such as the operation of the Shakespeare Express. The working party will initially focus on site clearance and preparation. If you wish to become involved in this exciting project, then please contact volunteer liaison by clicking this link . It is a requirement that all vounteers must be members of Vintage Trains Society for details>> |
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