Saltburn'S popular miniature railway looks likely to be realigned following a number of concerns raised by Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council.

A miniature railway has been operating on its existing route for more than 50 years. For the past ten years it has been run by volunteers, on a lease basis from the council.

The council says the railway provides a useful addition to the visitor facilities in Saltburn, but that the continued operation of the railway depends on a number of issues being resolved.

The existing engine shed is not large enough or secure enough to allow for the reintroduction of steam engines. The building is also beginning to lean heavily. The line is likely to require being fenced in the near future and the entrance to the railway site is hidden

Continuous slipping of the bankside is limiting the space available for the railway and pedestrians.

The plan would improve access and help to secure a longer-term future for the miniature railway.

It involves moving the railway to the eastern side of the valley with a new engine shed being located towards Saltburn Lane.

Funding for the project would be available through European Regional Development Fund money which is currently paying for key restoration work to the pier, foreshore and the valley gardens.

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