Fit for the Future Appeal launched
Avon Valley Railway Launches £150,000 'Fit for the Future' Appeal
The Avon Valley Railway has today launched a major £150,000 appeal to secure the long-term future of the former Midland Railway route, following a period of significant challenge and remarkable recovery. The AVR operates over a three-mile section of line between Bristol and Bath, but has ambitious plans for expansion.
In the past couple of years, the railway has faced an unprecedented series of setbacks. A financial fraud in 2024 dealt a serious blow to the organisation’s finances, while a combination of high fire risk and locomotive failures further disrupted operations. At the same time, rising costs across fuel, maintenance, and utilities placed additional strain on the railway’s ability to operate sustainably.
Despite these challenges, the Avon Valley Railway responded with determination. Funds were raised, and new trustees have been appointed. A refreshed programme of special events have been introduced, designed to attract new audiences and encourage repeat visits.
These efforts have already delivered encouraging results. Visitor number for Christmas trains were 10% up on the previous year. The railway’s TKh Ferrum locomotive “Karel” has now been successfully repaired and returned to service, and general visitor numbers have increased. The railway has pushed marketing of its dining trains, and recently held a 1960s re-enactment day to commemorate 60 years since the line’s closure.
However, while progress has been made, the railway considers further investment essential to ensure its long-term sustainability.
The newly launched £150,000 Fit for the Future appeal will focus on four key priorities:
£30,000 to help stabilise the railway’s financial position following these uncertain times and significant cost increases, ensuring its survival
£40,000 to complete the restoration of a second locomotive, the Bristol-built Avonside, which is part-way through overhaul, and to bring a further coach into service.
£50,000 to invest in catering facilities, unlocking new income streams through improved and expanded café offerings, ensuring Bitton Station remains a destination even when trains are not operating.
£30,000 to upgrade the tracks to ensure they remain fit for running trains in generations to come.
Looking further ahead, the railway also has long-term aspirations to restore its line beyond its current limits. Plans include taking the railway to Kelston for Saltford, and ultimately progressing towards the edge of Bath. Plans have been produced, and the railway has the support of local politicians. An extension is relatively straightforward in physical terms, with no obstructions on route. The double-track formation is shared with the Bristol-Bath cycle path, with sufficient room for a single-line railway on one side and a cycle path at the other.
The line has ambitions for Bitton station to become a heritage destination even when trains are not operating, offering space to community groups, and potentially hosting other craft industries. These ambitions form a key part of the AVR’s vision for the future.
Roger Enyon chair of the Avon Valley Railway Heritage Trust commented:
"The past year has tested us in ways we could never have anticipated. Thanks to the incredible support of our volunteers, visitors, and community, we are recovering and hope to grow again, but we still need urgent help. The AVR has had a relatively low profile amongst enthusiasts, but our plans will take it up a league. This appeal is about building on current momentum and ensuring the railway can thrive. Our longer-term vision to restore the line towards Saltford and Bath is an exciting part of that future."
The Avon Valley Railway is run largely by volunteers and plays an important role in preserving Britain’s railway heritage, as well as contributing to the local economy through tourism and education.
Supporters are encouraged to donate, spread the word, and be part of securing the railway’s future.
For more information about the appeal and how to contribute, visit www.avrht.org/appeal, or follow the Avon Valley Railway on social media.
