Mel Stride MP has welcomed £332,000 of funding from the Department of Culture, Media and Sport for the South Devon Railway in Buckfastleigh. The funding, provided through the Culture Recovery Fund for Heritage, is part of the Government’s £1.57 billion rescue package to safeguard cultural and heritage organisations from the economic impact of COVID-19.
The grant will help the railway recover from the enforced closure of its services since March, helping to bring people back to work in time to prepare for their Polar Express trains this Christmas and for the full reopening of the railway next year.
Mel said:
“I am delighted that the Government is protecting important cultural, arts and heritage institutions through a world-leading £1.57 billion rescue package. The South Devon Railway is an important part of Buckfastleigh’s heritage and brings vital tourism revenue to the region every year. I hope the grant proves to be a game-changer for the railway as it looks to get its finances back on track.”
Cllr Sarah Parker-Khan, who represents Ashburton & Buckfastleigh Ward on Teignbridge District Council, added:
“This is fantastic news for South Devon Railway - one of the most important tourist attractions in our region. The volunteers at SDR do an incredible job and this grant funding will help to ensure the trains keep steaming into the future.”
Photo: Mel during a previous visit to the South Devon Railway.