No.19 & No.20 Railcars Restoration
THE FOLLOWING IS EXTRACTED FROM A MORE DETAILED DRAFT PROJECT PROPOSAL
The restoration of the diesel railcars has long been on the wish list for many supporters of the railway and a full rebuild was commenced in 1998 by the railway but work halted the following year owing to a number of factors, chiefly budgetary constraints. The Association have always been advocates of their return to traffic and often receive enquiries regarding a fundraising campaign. There are a number of factors why this matter has never been followed up but as the only official charity in existence to support the railway we always strive to this goal when the time is right and funding is available. In recent times, with a more proactive involvement on the railway it has been discussed on a number of occasions and we remain desirous of their completion. In this regard, and aware of the likely cost based upon the feasibility study the Association commissioned from Alan Keef Ltd., back in 2007, the matter is often mooted.
To this end, we believe that the involvement of the Association in raising the necessary funds to complete the restoration of these historic vehicles is the best way forward. In addition to this volunteer involvement at the initial stage could include a full inventory of the component parts, many of which are stored in the carriage units, and some initial preparation and painting to make a start. Items like the seating frames, upholstery and cushions, internal light fixings, interior panelling and cladding could prove to be a sound basis for the start of a project which would ultimately see us working closely with Isle of Man Railways to ensure the project reach fruition. There is much preliminary work that can be achieved by our small but dedicated group of volunteers in addition to a fundraising plan to assist the railway to reach the ultimate goal to these railcars operating once again in service between Douglas and Port Erin.
PLEASE ADDRESS ALL ENQUIRIES TO iomsrsa@manx.net OR CONTACT THE CHAIRMAN
