Rail 100 event revives Eastleigh's hopes of heritage centre (From Daily Echo)

Rail 100 event revives Eastleigh's hopes of heritage centre

1:43pm Wednesday 27th May 2009 in

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EASTLEIGH 100, which attracted rail fans from across Britain and Europe, has revived hopes of creating a railway heritage centre in the town.

For some years there have been calls for a permanent reminder of Eastleigh’s proud railway past.

Eastleigh 100 marked the centenary of the opening of the giant rail works, where 314 steam locomotives, including the legendary Lord Nelson, were built. A further 104 were rebuilt.

The spectacular three-day rail show, which came to an end on Monday, attracted enthusiasts from as far as Scotland and rail fans also flew in from Germany.

It was a huge shot in the arm for the local economy, and event organiser Chris Milner said that the attendance had exceeded the most optimistic expectations.

The latest count showed that a total of 17,500 people poured through the gates, and the organisers were hoping that they could hit the 20,000 mark.

The popularity of Eastleigh 100 has given a huge boost to the hopes that part of the 48-acre site could one day be earmarked for a railway heritage centre.

Mr Milner said: “It would be nice if one could be developed.”