THE new boss of a railway museum hopes to forge stronger community links and reinvigorate its programme of events.

Locomotion in Shildon has appointed Sarah Price as its new head– the first senior appointment since moving into the management of the Science Museum Group last December.

Dr Price is currently head of engagement and learning at Durham University and, when she joins in August, her priorities will include links with the local community and events and exhibitions for schools, families and rail enthusiasts.

A project manager, with a heritage background, has also been appointed to oversee conservation of the museum’s historic buildings.

Ecological surveys will start this month before architects can be appointed ready for building contractors to start in the autumn.

Stabilisation work on the Grade II listed coal drops by Durham County Council is currently underway.

Locomotion also aims to better showcase its national collection of rail vehicles and tell Shildon’s history and importance as a railway town.

This could include a new building to house more rail vehicles and a larger workshop facility for engineering and heritage apprenticeships.

Bosses want feedback on the proposals to shape a longer term masterplan. Information can be found online at locomotion.org.uk/about-us/vision-future-locomotion and will be displayed in other venues over the summer.

The news followed an open event on Tuesday at which more than 100 people enjoyed music from local pupils, access into locomotive cabs and a look at restoration work on historic 2HAP carriages.

Judith McNicol, director of the National Railway Museum, said: “This was the first of what we hope will be many future events to give a unique glimpse into what goes on at the museum.

"We look forward to sharing our plans for the future as they shape up and for local people to meet our new head of Locomotion when we welcome her in late August, along with other members of our colleague and volunteer team. "It is an exciting time at Shildon, especially as we await the visit from Flying Scotsman in July.”