SEVERN Valley Railway’s long awaited diesel locomotive maintenance depot has got the green light.

Construction contracts have been signed with the principal contractor C21 Construction Limited for the facility which will allow undercover storage and maintenance work and will help the line preserve its fleet of heritage diesel locomotives, many of which are now more than 50 years old.

The depot, occupying part of the Kidderminster Yard adjacent to the 1/5th mile-long carriage shed, has long been a key part of the line’s ambitious plans for developing this site, just south of Kidderminster Town station. Previously maintenance of diesel rolling stock was completed outside in all weathers, including rain and on occasion snow by dedicated committed volunteers who will now be able to work under cover.

SVR's general manager, Nick Ralls said: "This is a vital improvement to our infrastructure, and recognition of the importance of preserving heritage diesel locomotives as well as our extensive fleet of steam locomotives."

The SVR diesel locomotives provide timetabled support on around 10 per cent of the railway’s annual services with an annual diesel gala in the autumn providing the chance for enthusiasts to travel behind a huge variety of diesel locomotive types. Diesel locomotives are also the unsung hero of the railway providing the motive power to shunt empty rolling stock around the railway and provide haulage for any trains that undertake repairs and maintenance to track and structures during the winter months.

“The SVR is home to around 20 diesel locomotives,” added Jonathan Dunster, cchairman of the diesel committee, which is leading the project. “The new depot provides us with a quality location to maintain and run them. It's a huge step forward.”

The new depot will provide approximately 1,000 sq m of covered accommodation and will consist of two locomotive inspection pits, lifting jacks and a 10 tonne overhead travelling crane. Completion of the facility is anticipated in the summer of 2015.

C21 is a construction specialist based in mid-Wales and will provide full project-management support to the SVR.