2010 Extension Works Update
The project
The current Railway at Bentley is around half a mile in length running from Bentley Central to Glyndebourne Wood Station before returning through a cutting and tunnel.
The extension takes the existing line from Bentley Central to Glyndebourne Wood but turns left immediately before entering Glyndebourne Wood Station and runs approximately 1/4 mile to a new station at the entrance to the park's wildfowl reserve. This will require construction of 3 bridges to cross the 2 ditches, construction of the new station and an additional footbridge to gain access to the station from the Wildfowl reserve. The project is being constructed in 3 phases, it is hoped that phase 1 will be completed in late 2010 with phase 3 due for completion in time for the 2012 summer season.
Progress Diary
Late August 2010
We made it... August Bank holiday Sunday/Monday saw the first passenger carrying services traversing the first stretch of the new extension
Mid August 2010
Progress towards the next water feature is being made rapidly with the rail head now nearing the ditch. Will this be in and ballasted before the August Bank-Holiday?
Late July 2010
Inbound and Outbound tracks are now joined at the crossover point with outbound edging reaching the next bridge
July 2010
Main line now connected with new point laid and crossover point refurbishment complete (foreground of centre photo). Meanwhile, excellent progress being made at track installation
June 2010
All hands to the deck to lay sufficient track for the Silver Jubilee. The woodland walk crossing is nearing completion and the track bed has now been excavated with the first bridge also in place.
May 2010
Track panel and point construction is progressing apace along with the new Signal Box for Glyndebourne Wood which is nearing completion.
April 2010
New level crossing gates on old track installed and ready to be wired in, old gates undergoing refurbishment for re-use across woodland walk
Sufficient track panels now built to complete phase 1 of construction
February 2010
Think it might be a damp ride next winter?
Track panel construction is progressing fast with around half the panels for phase 1 already complete
January 2010
Floor of new signal box at Glyndebourne Wood is now dug out and and ductwork progressing. New bridges being constructed off-site (3 will be required).
December 2009
Planning permission granted (subject to conditions) by Wealden District Council
October 2009
Planning application delivered to Wealden District Council.
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