Plans are being put together for a new land train in Weymouth.
The train would operate two routes – from Brewers Quay to Alexandra Gardens and from the Alexandra Gardens to Radipole Lake.
The company behind the plans is Radipole Express Ltd, which is owned by Tony Poole.
However, for the land train to operate on the town’s roads it needs a Vehicle Special Order (VSO), which requires the backing of Weymouth Town Council, Dorset Council and Dorset Police.
Weymouth Town Council will be given a presentation from Mr Poole tonight.
The aim is for the land train to operate from the Easter Bank Holiday until October at weekends and school holidays.
A report sent to councillors, says the land train will have two revenue streams – families seeking more than just the beach, and cruise ship visitors from Portland Port.
This year, 43 cruise ships visited the town bringing 56,000 potential passengers.
A land train service could help tourists to see more of the town during their visit and help boost business.
The land train is part of Mr Poole’s plans to regenerate the area.
He also wants the land train to inform visitors about the town’s history.
The cost of the service is estimated to be £4 for a round trip from Alexandra Gardens to Radipole Lake and £5 for a round trip from Brewers Quay to Alexandra Gardens.
The train will tow three carriages, each holding approximately 16 passengers and will travel at 10mph around the town.
The plans have already gathered some support from councillors and Weymouth Town Council has been recommended to support the application.
Cllr Ken Whatley said: “I think this is an excellent idea and I fully support it. It appears to be well costed and without cost to the town council. It will be a great attraction during the summer.”
Cllr Jon Orrell said: “I welcome the land train idea. We have just lost one attraction in the tower so to have a new one is good.”
Claudia Moore from Weymouth BID says she will be backing the project.
Meanwhile, Bill Reeves, CEO of Portland Port, said: “I have not had an opportunity to discuss this project with the organisers, so I cannot comment on the detail. However, I understand that a similar project operates in Bournemouth and is successful. Doing something similar in Weymouth sounds like a good idea.”
Source - Dorset Echo