The Route
These pages refer to the section of the railway the ALRS intends to reopen. Further information about the entire route of the old railway can be found on the ALR – A History pages.
The ALRS is proposing that a short section of the old line measuring approximately 2˝ miles be reinstated between Ashover (Butts) and Dark Lane (the B6014), close to the shores of Ogston Reservoir.
The main terminus station would be built on a site a short distance from the original ALR station at Woolley, and located between Dark Lane and Badger Lane. This would give potential passengers the opportunity to visit the reservoir where a picnic site may be created. This station would be the main departure point for trains and would be the site of the new railway’s headquarters, café, shop and public car park. This would eliminate any need to create car parking in Ashover, as the railway would be a ‘Park & Ride’ service to the village.
The proposed site of the new main terminus. (click to enlarge)
The view of Ogston Reservoir from close to the terminus site. (click to enlarge)
It is too early to have a name for this proposed station, so for now we will call it simply Woolley Moor. Ashover is clearly the ultimate destination but the ALRS is well aware that a reinstated railway would serve a wider community and therefore, where possible, the original halts along the line would be reinstated.
The track-bed between Woolley and Dalebank. (click to enlarge)
Between Dalebank and Woolley looking towards the latter. (click to enlarge)
The approach to Dale Bank Lane is very scenic. (click to enlarge)
Upon leaving Woolley Moor the line would run in a north westerly direction with the River Amber immediately on the left, and then within the space of a quarter mile will cross the river twice and then parallel it as far as Dale Bank Lane where the first of the original halts, Dalebank, would be reinstated after crossing the road.