The MSLR track extension project more than doubled the length of the Middy to approximately 1km.
Now to complete the construction of Aspall Halt!
The Middy line extension is now complete and we have been allowed to run public trains to the end of the line since August 1st 2025.
Extending the Mid Suffolk Light Railway by another 500 metres has more than doubled its operational length. This means the Middy is able to give visitors vintage steam train rides of almost 2 kilometeres there and back.
The first major advance was the preparation and tidying of the Dovebrook area, which also included the building of a new footbridge to access both the station and picnic areas and the building of a new ramp from the Dovebrook platform to provide easy access for disabled visitors and an emergency exit if ever needed. This work was carried out by the Middy Infrastructure Team.
TES2000 the Middy’s (and Network Rail!) Contractors, carried out the heavy lifting beyond Dovebrook platform taking the line on to the final destination of Aspall Halt.
The Permanent Way Team have made great progress constructing the platform. Now we need the funds to complete the station buildings and landscape the area around Aspall Halt.
The new section follows the existing track bed and enhances the visitor experience of this unique Edwardian Railway. The station construction is modelled on the old station at Wilby, which had the minimal building and facilities so typical of the original cash-strapped Middy.
This project will ensure the future of the Mid-Suffolk Light Railway as a Suffolk tourism attraction and a unique part of British Railway History.
Aspall Halt Station
Help complete the ‘destination’ at the end of the Middy
The Middy’s Sponsor-a-Sleeper Campaign was an important and successful source for raising funds to complete the track extension. Now we have our track and platform the next steps are to fund the destination station buildings and landscaping around the station site.
Previously donors were asked to sponsor sleepers and in return they received a certificate confirming their contributions. Now the main line track laying is completed, we have adapted the system for funding building the platform, station and other operational costs and to issue Aspall Halt Station Sponsor Certificates for each £25.00 contribution received.
If you would like to help this great project to secure the Middy as a national railway attraction and a major Suffolk tourist attraction, please visit our sponsorship page.
