New station platform at the SKLR
Published
Wednesday 16 April, 2025
Updated
Wednesday 16 April, 2025
It will be easier than ever for people to enjoy a trip on the Sittingbourne and Kemsley Light Railway (SKLR) thanks to a grant from Swale Borough Council.
The funding, awarded through the council’s Community Infrastructure Grant, has been used to install a wheelchair-accessible path and railings from the ticket office up to the platform at Sittingbourne Viaduct Station.
This will make sure all Swale residents can enjoy this unique community asset.
The path is one part of improvements to the approach to the train, and the project will also include general enhancements to the surrounding area, making the trip to the train more pleasant for families and people with disabilities.
The heritage railway, operated by volunteers, runs original steam trains along part of the old Bowaters Paper Railway line, which was built in 1905.
The line played a vital role in Sittingbourne’s industrial past, transporting paper and raw materials between Sittingbourne and Ridham Dock.
Sittingbourne was once home to one of the world's largest paper mills, and last year marked the centenary of Kemsley Mill, which continues to produce paper today.
The SKLR, a registered charity, is dedicated to preserving this industrial heritage while providing educational and social opportunities for the local community and visitors.
Dr Paul Williams, Trustee Director of the Sittingbourne and Kemsley Light Railway, said:
“The SKLR has played a role in the local community for more than 50 years.
“The primary aim of this project is to improve accessibility of this local heritage asset for people with disabilities and families.
“We believe that our visitors will see a real difference now that we have reopened to the public on Sundays, from 6th April, and over the four days of the Easter weekend.
"Together with our rebuilt platform, this will transform the experience for wheelchair users and families with pushchairs, generally enhance the area for visitors and play a role in attracting tourism to the borough.”
