First track layed in Running Shed - December 2005

The GVLRA has embarked on its most ambitious project, a self-build 5,000sq ft Running Shed. Work started in the spring of 2003 on the building, which is being funded by member's loans and donations as well as surpluses from operating income. The building will have three tracks, one of which will have a pit, wheel drop and overhead crane. Once built, as well as a first class maintenance facility, the railway will be able to house all its passenger carrying stock undercover.

"Tracklaying inside Running Shed
December 2005"

Photo Paul Sharpe

"Running Shed"

Photo Dave Coulson

"Foundation Ring Beam
final concrete pour"

"Windows being removed"

Photos Chris Marshall

Progress to date

Building

Concreting of pit walls and floor of maintenance side of Running Shed finished, February 2006

First 2 lengths of rail lowered on to pit stanchions, 11th December 2005, followed a week later by laying of more track.

Ground at East end of Building levelled to provide base for laying of 3 points and track fan, November 2005

2 containers relocated, October 2005, for laying of track fan

North elevation fully completed September 2005

North and South elevation Brick & Blockwork completed to half height tie bars June 2005

Bricklaying recommenced late March 2005

18inch thick pit floor cast November 2004

Brickwork commenced Sat 21st August 2004

8ft deep hole for pit dug June 2004

Blockwork commenced May 2004

Erection of building frame and roof March 2004

10 cast iron heritage windows sourced 27th July 2003

Groundworks
Completed - October 2003

Casting of the Ring Beam July - September

Ground piling 24th - 28th June

370 Tons of hardcore delivered and rolled to a depth of 1ft, 8th June

All spoil removed, May

Official groundbreaking ceremony by Judy Mallaber MP 5th April.

Pre-construction phase
completed - 23rd March 2003

The site has been completely cleared.
All safety fencing has been installed and safe walking routes created.
All plans, surveys and structural calculations completed.