News that it is full steam ahead for Craigtoun Country Park’s miniature railway this summer has been hailed.
It is sure to delight the generations of St Andrews folk who have fond childhood memories of riding on the tiny locomotive.
As the fight continues for the future of the once bustling park, which has deteriorated in recent years, Fife Council has struck a deal with MRW Railways.
The line, which has run since 1960, was to be closed for the entire 2011 season due to financial constraints but will operate daily from July 2 to August 28.
The town’s four councillors helped the council get the attraction back on track and one of them, Bill Sangster, said, “Families come from far and wide to have a go on the miniature railway, so we are all delighted that this has been achieved all in a short space of time.
“There is much work still to be carried out to get this wonderful park back on the map and an advertising campaign must now be put in place so that the whole community can come and enjoy (it).”
The council has been seeking new ways of managing the park, which needs estimated investment of £3.7 million over and above annual running costs to return to its former glory.
Peter Bryant, of MRW Railways, offered his company’s services and a contract was negotiated.
Restoration work has now been conducted on the line and Mr Bryant is supplying a replacement Denver & Rio Grande steam locomotive to run the three carriages along the upgraded track.
He said, “The new locomotive and upgrade work on the station and track will ensure the line is as good as it has ever been and we can’t wait to start running.”
Kate Hughes, council area services manager for north-east Fife, said, “It is wonderful to know that this much loved and well used facility will continue to operate this summer.”