Work has started on the construction of the new presentation platform and canopy at Donegal Railway Heritage Centre.
The work has started in preparation for the return of Drumboe, Donegal’s famous steam engine to the site.
Work has also started on the restoration of Drumboe, at Heritage Engineering Ireland, Whitehead.
Mark McDaid, Chair of Donegal Railway Heritage Centre stated: “We are delighted that construction work has finally started after some delays due to the unscheduled Covid closures. However, we are on track for the building works to be completed by the start of 2021.
“Hopefully, not long after that, Drumboe after her refurbishment, will return once again to the original Donegal Railway Station site which is now home to our unique museum.
“We would like to thank again, Donegal Local Development CLG, Graham Forbes (grandson of CDR Manager Henry Forbes), The North West of Ireland Railway Society and many others and all of our benefactors who have made this €100k project all possible, leaving now only a small amount remaining to be raise.”
Drumboe will become the centrepiece of Donegal’s railway museum in Donegal Town, making it a landmark tourism project drawing locals and visitors alike to the region.
Mark added “More importantly however, it will have a positive impact on the local community and County, in the economic regeneration of the region, our heritage and in increased pride.
“However, our ambitions don’t stop there! We are still looking at a bigger plan in the medium-long term to open up a bit of track and once again have Donegal train stock running in this part of Donegal!”
The landmark project should be complete by late spring of 2021.
The museum will continue to operate remotely during this time for online publication sales.
If members of the public wish to contribute towards the remaining small shortfall to cover some additional work on the project, they can do so through the website at http://donegalrailway.com/donate/ or by contacting the museum directly.
For more information, contact Donegal Railway Heritage Centre at email info@donegalrailway.com or check out our Facebook page.
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