PLANS are right on track for an interactive model railway to form the main attraction at Immingham's new museum.
The finishing touches are being put to a 42-foot model of the Great Central Railway hub which formed the centrepiece of the town's fledgling dock development 100 years ago.
As reported, a new and improved two-storey Immingham Museum is set to reopen at the Civic Centre, in Pelham Road, on November 1.
The decision to move the museum came after it was announced its previous premises, at the Resource Centre, in Margaret Street, would close.
Museum benefactor and railway enthusiast John Trevitt said: "The exhibition will be a celebration of the importance of the railways to this area's history and its future.
"Many people don't know that it was actually the Great Central Railway that built Immingham Docks and made the town what it is today.
"Railways built the docks, the seaside industry and the fishing industry but they are often forgotten. We hope this replica of the original engine shed at Immingham will capture the imagination of people of all ages and ensure that the legacy of the railways lives on."
Even though it is yet to be unveiled to the public, the interactive model railway – which occupies the whole of the first floor and was built by David Neve, from Cleethorpes – is already attracting attention from rail enthusiasts across the country.
Mick Whelan, general secretary of ASLEF, the train drivers' union, paid a visit to see it for himself. He said: "ASLEF are very interested in anything which demonstrates the development of the railways as an industrial power."
The Mayor of North East Lincolnshire, Mike Burton, said: "This will become an important attraction not just for the town and for North East Lincolnshire, but for those from further afield."
Ward councillor and train driver Dave Watson added: "This will become a real focal point of the town."
Keep reading your Grimsby Telegraph for details of the official museum opening.
