All aboard! (From Barry And District News)

All aboard!

ANOTHER key component in the development of the Barry railway project is set to be unveiled over the next six months.

Running parallel to the existing operational line, 600 metres of new track will enable the Vale of Glamorgan Railway Company to operate an extended heritage railway service for local residents and visitors from Barry Island station to the car park alongside the Morrisons store.

The track currently terminates at Woodham Halt alongside the information technology centre run by the Vale of Glamorgan Council and Barry College and which was officially opened two years ago.

The £200,000 project is being funded by an Objective 2 grant and other match funding from the Welsh Assembly Government.

A contribution from the Council has also been given to purchase the required land with the support of the Assembly.

Planning permission for the development has already been approved and the Council is currently seeking agreement to provide a platform at the Morrisons site.

The heritage railway project is a major urban regeneration project actively supported by the Council and Welsh Development Agency over the past 10 years as part of their plans to regenerate the greater Barry area. The project is managed by the Vale of Glamorgan Railway Company, a voluntary organisation which has around 300 members.

Welcoming the development as another "significant step" in the delivery of the project, Vale Council Leader Cllr Jeffrey James said: "The heritage railway is already proving a very popular attraction for both residents and visitors, and this extended link will help integrate the Island resort with the new Waterfront developments.

"For local residents, there will be an alternative mode of transport for trips between Barry Island and the town centre area

"I feel the sure that all the developments are providing a timely boost for the local tourism industry and retail economy, and, of course, there are other community benefits such as skills training projects."

Vale of Glamorgan Railway Company general manager Janet Small said: "As the heritage centre and steam railway continue to develop, they will, hopefully, provide a living memorial which celebrates the importance of railways to the industrial heritage and cultural development of the area."

Welsh Assembly Government Minister for Enterprise, Innovation and Networks Andrew Davies said: "This new railway track will be of great benefit to the people of Barry and those coming from further afield by creating the opportunity for better and more efficient access from Barry Island to the Waterfront."

l The company will be running Easter specials from Good Friday to Easter Monday, with trains every 45 minutes from 11am to 4.15pm and ticket prices at £5 adults, £4 children and £14 family. Further details on 01446 748816.