Bala: Heritage steam railway extension plans rejected

Bala Lake Railway had hoped its new line and station would open next year

Plans to extend a heritage steam railway into the centre of Bala, Gwynedd, have been rejected.

Officers at Eryri - also known as Snowdonia - said they agreed with the principle of expanding Bala Lake Railway, but recommended refusal.

The national park's planning committee officially turned down the proposals on Wednesday.

Supporters had argued for approval with conditions, or a decision deferral.

One of the reasons cited for the rejection was the impact on phosphate levels in nearby waterways. 

• Steam train on show in drive to extend rail line

• Campaign to fund £2.5m rail extension

Bala Lake Railway embarked on a fundraising mission spanning several years, to raise £4m to build three-quarters of a mile (1.2km) of new track and a new station in the town centre.

It hoped bringing trains into Bala town centre would help the economy and boost the railway's fortunes.

At present narrow gauge trains run four-and-a-half miles (7.2km) from Llanuwchllyn along the shore of Llyn Tegid to the outskirts of Bala.