Swanage Railway has been granted charitable status by the Charity Commission, marking a major milestone in the heritage railway’s 50th anniversary year. The move follows months of planning and consultation and brings the railway’s heritage, educational and operational activities together under a single charitable organisation. The new structure will help safeguard the railway’s future, and create greater opportunities for grant funding and charitable support.
Founded by volunteers in 1975 to preserve the branch line between Swanage and Norden, the railway has grown into one of the country’s leading heritage railways, welcoming thousands of visitors each year while supporting education programmes, volunteering opportunities and the local economy.
Chief executive Abbie King said: ‘It gives us the opportunity to protect our heritage, expand our educational and community work and ensure that the Swanage Railway continues to benefit future generations.’
The change was overwhelmingly backed by members and reflects the railway’s wider role as a heritage and education charity as well as a visitor attraction. As it celebrates half a century since volunteers first began restoring the line, the Swanage Railway says charitable status provides a stronger foundation for preserving Dorset’s railway heritage for decades to come.
swanagerailway.co.uk
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