Name British Rail Length ⁄2 mile (0.8 km) | Stations 1 | |
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Original gauge 4 ft 8 ⁄2 in (1,435 mm) standard gauge Operated by Rushden Historical Transport Society Preserved gauge 4 ft 8 ⁄2 in (1,435 mm) standard gauge | ||
The Rushden, Higham & Wellingborough Railway is a heritage railway operated by the Rushden Historical Transport Society in the United Kingdom.
Contents
The original aim was to re-open the majority of the ex-Midland Railway branch line from Wellingborough to Higham Ferrers, which had been closed completely in November 1969, however this is no longer the intention. As of April 2016, around 1⁄2 mile (0.8 km) stretch of the line is operated between Rushden station and Prospect Avenue. There are plans to extend the line to Higham Ferrers.
Rushden station
Rushden station has been preserved by the Rushden Historical Transport Society. The station building is fully intact and open with no admission fee although donations are requested.
The footbridge is currently missing, and a level crossing divides the platform into two sections. A replacement footbridge similar to the original is awaiting installation, at which point the missing section of platform will be replaced.
On operating days trains use a separate platform slightly to the east. There is a signal box on site also. To the west immediately after the station there is a bridge missing. To the east, the line ends adjacent to Prospect Ave, and is used throughout the year.
Rolling stock
On site can be found a main-line diesel, Class 31, 31206, a number of Mark 1 carriages and a Gresley buffet car. In addition the line has a few industrial steam locomotives and some small diesel shunters. Frequently a number of preserved buses and coaches can also be found on the site.