Severn Valley Railway steams towards £2.5 million fund's halfway mark for Bridgnorth station work

Severn Valley Railway has raised nearly £1.25m through a share offer to restore the picturesque station.

Work started on the project in March and bosses now say they have enough to finish the station alterations but need a boost to the fund to carry out other planned improvements at the site.

Contractors are currently building a new refreshment room which is on track for completion by the end of the summer.

The work on the 1862 grade-II listed station building also includes re-instating the booking hall and waiting room to their original positions, as well as expanding the Railwayman’s Arms bar.

Since its launch less than eight months ago, the share offer has sold more than £1.2m million shares but needs to raise the same amount again to carry out other work.

This includes the installation of a turntable, allowing engines to turn on the track in view of visitors, as well as improvements in car parking, access and the general landscape, such as tree planting.

To contribute to the project, people are able to buy shares in the redevelopment for just £1 each. It is hoped to reach the £2.5m target by October this year when the offer has to close.

Mick York, vice president of Severn Valley Railway Holdings, said: "The fund has got off to a good start and then eased off but we're expecting it to pick up again.

"Now that people can see the work that has already been achieved at the station, it acts as a filip. Some people are quite happy to invest straight away, while others like to wait to see how the project develops.

"The fund has almost reached the halfway mark now and that's the position we expected to be in at this stage. I think those people who have held back will now be encouraged get on board."

Built in the style of a typical Great Western Railway building of the early 19th century, the refreshment room is a key element of the restoration, positioned to give visitors great views over the Severn Valley.

Full share offer information can be found at svr.co.uk/shareoffer or by calling 01562 757900.

Alternatively, those wishing to donate to the Bridgnorth Development Fund without purchasing shares can do so via the Severn Valley Railway Charitable Trust. Go to svrtrust.org.uk to download a Bridgnorth donation form.