A SNEAK peek first look was revealed today of a new heritage railway experience which is on track to become a top new Yorkshire attraction - including plans for a reconstructed 1849 Fitzwilliam locomotive. 
It also includes a rail college, outdoor events area and more, writes Graham Walker.



The vision, including artist impressions, has been announced for the former site of the Elsecar Ironworks – at Barnsley’s popular Elsecar Hertage Centre.
Now a scheduled ancient monument, the site has been carefully developed over the past two years, based on extensive public consultation and working closely with Historic England, as a legacy project of our Heritage Action Zone partnership.
Plans for the former ironworks include showcasing a reconstructed 1849 Fitzwilliam locomotive, powered by sustainable fuels.
It would also be the home of a new rail college and rail technology test track, training more than 400 students each year
Advanced engineering workshops are part of the vision to highlight the region’s innovation
The site would have a new ‘Cultural Canteen’ and outdoor events and performance area, set against a spectacular backdrop of the ironworks furnaces and restored blast wall
It also includes plans for an Active Travel Hub and Cycle Hire, to enable families and visitors to travel to Elsecar, and explore the Elsecar Valley, on foot and by bike