Lynton and Barnstaple - Operations and Development

Well, to be honest about this, I am sure if we were to meet in a pub and we were having a face to face disscusion about heritage railways, I would bet that we have very similar views on how all this lot should/could go forward.

 

My two pence:

The most important currency to build at present is that of credibility. Both within and without the heritage railway movement the overall project skates on thin ice at present. Only the B&YVRT has been in consistent “positive” credibility for the last 5 or more years.

The LBRT and associated organisations have done some good and interesting things, but blown most of their accrued credibility on two failed attempts to extend. The second of which was carried out at a time and in a way which was entirely tone deaf. The situation with OSHI is alarming - and I do not use that word lightly.

If we stand back and look at the project as a whole the main question has to be “why do we need this railway?” It cannot exist in a bubble. It must bring benefit to the local area. That benefit must be wider than tourism. Furthermore, the national park area and residents might well argue that they don’t require that tourism, as a destination point within the park.

If we look to the lower Yeo Valley there are opportunities to create something of value that could catalyse the economy of a depressed economy. Not the worst of areas nationally for economic disadvantage, but quite close. Building things (physical and in respect of volunteering and employment/training) is something that would be very welcome. Credibility gained there in steady, bite size chunks that can accelerate and grow more credibility will be the approach that delivers confidence, financial resources, and a supportive local population.

Replicate that steadily up the valley, and I think there is reason to think that in 20years or less there could be a Barnstaple to Blackmoor Gate railway. That railway
(Which I am sure by then would also be a combination of both Trusts) might be able to build the rest of the line if at that point they still wanted to do so.

I don’t think any other approach has a greater chance of success.

 

The LBRT needs to continue the great work at Woody Bay. Secure the heritage of the L&B and sort out OSHI. Achieving financial stability should be the main focus in my opinion for the next three to five years.