Severn Valley Railway implements coal-saving measures

The Severn Valley Railway has announced some changes to its operations in the coming months, as part of a drive to conserve its stocks of coal.

The railway, in common with others across the country, is facing challenges in sourcing new supplies. The difficulties have become compounded because of conflict in Eastern Europe.

All footplate experiences until the end of May will be postponed until a later date. The railway has informed all passengers who will be affected by these changes.

Helen Smith, Managing Director, explained more: “We are having to making some difficult decisions in order to conserve our existing supply of coal, and we need to do all we can to make our existing supply last longer. We are working hard to secure new supplies, which will ease the situation.

“We are having to postpone some of our footplate experiences as an initial measure and have contacted all those that are impacted at this moment in time. The Severn Valley Railway is looking at further measures to conserve and prolong our existing coal supplies which include using a mixture of coal and other materials, including e-coal and Ovoid.

“This issue has come at a very difficult time for everyone in the heritage railway industry as we are all recovering from the financial challenges brought on by the pandemic.”

“Keeping the SVR running public services is our top priority, and the measures we’re now introducing will help secure heritage rail travel in the coming months for our passengers.”

All other events, including the SVR’s Open House Weekend, Spring Steam Gala and Spring Diesel Festival will currently proceed as planned.

Tickets can be booked at svr.co.uk or by calling the team on 01562 757900

Photo credit: Severn Valley Railway

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