TESTING has begun on the Poole Park Railway, although, no date has been given for an official opening.

Brand new carriages arrived for the locomotive and officials have been seen donning high vis jackets onboard.

Cllr Mark Anderson, portfolio holder for environment and place, said: “Recent visitors to Poole Park will have certainly seen some exciting developments around the miniature railway site.

READ MORE: Poole Park Railway: Next summer the new target for return

“Last Friday saw the arrival of our brand new carriages, which was an important and exciting milestone for the project. Prior to this, we also successfully secured a temporary engine, whilst we await the arrival of our fully electric engine later this year.

“We will now need to undergo a period of testing and qualification, overseen by an industry certification body.

“Following this, training for officers and our amazing volunteers will then need to take place. The safety of our passengers and volunteers is of the greatest importance and that’s why this phase of the project is so vital and can’t be rushed.

“Unfortunately, this means we are unable to confirm an official opening date at this time, but rest assured we will do as soon as practicably possible.”

Efforts to bring back the popular attraction were stalled after the council failed to secure a contingency engine as promised in December.

A budget of £350,000 was initially set aside with a target of having the railway back open in December.

Bournemouth Echo:

READ MORE: Project to bring back Poole Park Railway delayed again

The railway was initially suspended in 2018 after a series of problems, including derailments and staff shortages.

In 2019, planning permission was granted for the demolition and replacement of its engine shed while the 640m track also needed to be re-laid.

Cllr Anderson added: “I would again like to take this opportunity to thank the local miniature train community, who remain highly supportive of the work we are doing.

“Their support, advice, and encouragement to date has been invaluable.

“On a personal level, I’m hugely excited about the reopening of this attraction. However, I’m also incredibly proud that BCP Council made the decision to reopen this attraction, as it recognised the important history and heritage of the railway in Poole Park.”