VISITORS to the Miniature Railway at Coate Water could soon see the attraction double in size if a planning application is approved.

The railway has submitted an application to Swindon Council for the approval of plans to change the use of nearby woodland to provide an extension to the railway and erect a station platform.

In the application, Hilary Foley, secretary of the North Wilts Model Engineering Society which operates the railway, said: “We have recently been granted the inclusion of extra land within our lease and wish to extend our railway track down towards the Richard Jefferies Museum, effectively doubling the length of ride for passengers and hopefully in time incorporating a station or halt for visitors to the museum.

“As few trees as possible will be removed to facilitate the track design. We intend to replace removed trees at the rate of, at least, two for one.

“It is proposed that at a future date, access for train rides will also be provided by means of a platform behind the Richard Jefferies Museum.”

A decision on the application is set to be made mid November.

To view the application, visit www.swindon.gov.uk