09.12.2013 for immediate release: Local MP, Greg Barker, is backing plans for the expansion of the Rother Valley Railway following his visit their Robertsbridge headquarters last Friday to see how the local heritage railway project is progressing.
Greg, a patron of the Rother Valley Railway, met David Gillett, Project Manager, Gardner Crawley, Chairman and Mike Hart, Vice Chairman, for an update on the plans to complete the missing link of the Robertsbridge to Tenterden line. He was pleased to hear about the enthusiasm and co-operation the heritage railway has been receiving from Network Rail, both in terms of volunteer time and practical support.
Once completed, the railway will re-join with the Kent and East Sussex Railway to complete a 14 mile heritage railway experience from Tenterden to Robertsbridge where passengers can join mainline railway services to London and down to the South Coast.
The completed project will bring more visitors to local attractions along the line such as Bodiam Castle, Great Dixter and the Northiam toy museum whilst boosting trade for local hotels, B&Bs, shops and other facilities in Robertsbridge and surrounding villages. The completed project is expected to be worth over £10 million per year to the local economy.
Speaking at Robertsbridge, Greg said “I was impressed to see how far work has progressed at Robertsbridge Station on building the platforms, station buildings and the railway line itself. It is very exciting to see this award-winning engineering project moving forward at a great pace. Once complete it will be a great asset to the local businesses and communities who will benefit from the increased tourism it brings. I’m look forward to visiting again soon.”