West Somerset Railway Operations

Isn't the issue though that the Minehead branch never used to be "red", and only gained that classification in preservation? In which case, and I think I've seen it mentioned on here, the question must be not just the track, but also the earthworks.

 

Well I make no claims to any real knowledge of the WSR infrastructure so I will look forward to seeing the results of the independent track survey and hope that all the really expensive bits (i.e. bridges etc) are in good enough condition.

 

That's not what I'm saying. I'm saying is I've not read a financial case which justifies the extra cost of regaining red route status or even a statement which states it can be achieved at no additional cost.

 

There is presumably also difference between red routes and what the GWR called "dotted red" which allowed red locos to travel at a maximum of 25 mph. There's absolutely no need to allow for red locos to be pounding along at 45mph or whatever the original linespeed was, so there is that to take into account too.

I'm no expert but there is also the possibility investing more money now for a longer term future as opposed to doing cheaper quicker repairs might almost inevitably mean that the WSR is able to take higher axle-loads, as solutions have been designed to last for the next 50 years, rather than 10.

 

Dotted red seems to be 20 mph.

 

Is that like the last page of the highway code where it says 'tear down the dotted line'

 

There was, in the statement about "a full independent track survey", a subsequent five to ten year plan mentioned. No quick fixes it seems, so it will not happen this year - you will have to be patient I guess.

 

Ah so it is, it was dotted blue that was 25mph, thanks for correction. I think the general thrust of my point still stands though; whether it has any basis in fact though who knows!

 

The work needed on Black Monkey bridge on Washford bank is going to be very expensive.

 

Perhaps we should wait for the survey before jumping to that conclusion?

 

9351 and 7822 a moment ago. I'd say 9351 is actually quite a handsome loco.
(WSR.org/railcam.uk).

 

9351 in fine form crossing Ker Moor (chaperoned by Foxcote Manor) on the return run of her first Minehead - Bishop’s Lydeard round trip since overhaul.

 

Glad to see it finished, they must have re-weighted it as well as the two red dots have gone ! Its clearly lighter than they thought

 

Someone has been having a bit of fun, because at one point today, it had four red dots on one side!

 

Thinking about it it's not a harmless bit of fun. It just needs someone from the ORR to take the two red dots seriously and the PLC is in for a lot of trouble. These shenanigans should have been nipped in the bud.

 

But Halls, which are not 'big' are red.

 

I suspect that's rather over-sensitive. When all is said and done, the dots on the side of a loco in heritage usage are just livery, and I don't think the ORR are too concerned about getting into livery debates. Far more important is that the railway has properly weighed the loco, with calibrated equipment; and can show the weights on each wheel are within the diagrammed tolerances - which I am sure they would be able to demonstrate.

Tom

 

One has to be a little careful that the 'Fun Police' don't bring too many prosecutions.

Robin

 

Absolutely, don't trail your coat & inspire them to get started. They might learn to get it right next time having lost over something they had overlooked.

 

End of late shift.

Blue Anchor up home at 22:00