Bala and Llangollen railways: The contemporary planning challenges for Heritage Railway extensions.

In this episode Alasdair visits Bala Lake Railway and chat to Julian Birley BEM, chair of Bala Lake Railway Trust to discuss the challenges they are working to overcome in their bid to extend the narrow gauge line from its current terminus to a new station site closer to Bala town centre. Volunteer Dinah Delchambre also speaks about organising fundraising activities for the Bala Lake Railway Trust appeal. 

For further information see: https://www.balalakerailwaytrust.org.uk

For information about travelling on the Bala Lake Railway: https://shop.bala-lake-railway.co.uk/book/

A few miles to the east, Alasdair talks to Terry Pickthall of the Llangollen and Corwen Railway, before hearing in more detail from Management Team member, Peter Neve, about the development of the new station which incorporates traditional heritage features and modern design elements at Corwen. 

Husband and wife team, Wayne & Sue Ronneback, duty station masters, offer a glimpse of their roles as volunteers before passengers and local residents comment on the favourable impact the return of trains is having on the town. 

For further information, details of train times and online booking: 

https://llangollen-railway.co.uk

This podcast is produced by Laura Raymond and presented by Alasdair Stewart

Our 'Making Tracks' music is with kind permission of composer and musician Richard Durrant. It is a unique piece inspired by the rhythm of the historic rolling stock on the Ffestiniog Railway on the scenic journey from Harbour Station to Tan y Blwch.

You can listen and download the full 'Tan y Bwlch' Ukulele Quartet here:

Ukulele Quartet No. 1 "Tan y Bwlch"

Ukulele Quartet No. 1 "Tan y Bwlch" Richard Durrant · Single · 2019 · 3 songs.