GWR: the case for more replicas.

The Broad gauge loading gauge on the other hand...

The Ashburton/Buckfastleigh branch might be a place for mixed gauge...

 

Ah, but just for a moment imagine Iron Duke on the "main line" ..... What an experience for the footplate crew too; 60 or 70 mph (or even 80) on a completely open footplate!

Delightful flight of fancy.

EDIT! I just remembered its only got a small boiler underneath!

 

There used to be a Nord Compound in the National Collection, as it was the next best thing to a GWR de Glehn and thus an important part of the story of UK locomotive development. It was deaccessioned, sold privately, and subsequently repatriated and lost to the UK forever. I have never understood why the Science Museum declared it surplus to requirements.

 

Apropos somewhere to run a broad gauge loco (preferably with a train) at speed, it would clearly be much cheaper (or should I say much less expensive) to convert an existing line (which already has the formation, signalling, etc) to dual gauge than to restore a derelict line. How about the Great Central, which was built to Continental loading gauge?

 

It seems unlikely, and also depends which Continental gauge: the broad gauge was taller then many of them and wider than all. An ex broad gauge line would surely be a better bet,. Perhaps we should make a list of candidates. But the trouble is so much will have changed in the meantime.