The clearances

On visiting my allotment this morning for the first time since the onset of winter I discovered that someone had, during my absence, taken on a plot which had remained unused for some years.  I knew because the new openness of the ground was as clear as if a sign had been erected, stating, "Look, something is happening."

Similarly, just along my road a huge overgrown front garden was cleared overnight, and the tell-tale yellow notice on a nearby lamp post suggested redevelopment was afoot.  When you become used to the way things are along the street – at least for all who do not have their heads resolutely bowed, looking at their mobile phone screens – any small change from day to day is immediately spotted.

Before the clearances
Photo courtesy Jon Brindle

If you use Alban Way for regular rides, jogs or walks and if you pass the former Smallford Station, you will have spotted the clearance on the platform of its emerging and energetic undergrowth, shrubs and small trees.  You can now almost imagine standing on the platform and looking into the distance for the next train to arrive.

The train won't arrive, of course.  The last passenger train called in 1951, and as you will realise, there are no tracks!  There is no prospect either, of trains returning.  But Alban Way (formerly Smallford Trail) is certainly popular, and it is that popularity which has, at least in part, prompted the platform clearances.

After the clearances
Photo courtesy Jeff Lewis

When the work, being undertaken by Countryside Management Service, is complete, the station and halt platforms will all have been cleared and the surfaces restored.  The Smallford Project would also like to treat the platforms as opportunities for rest or discovery, revealing more about the history of the route they are traversing.

The work is not a one-hit task, but will be undertaken gradually, as the funding allows.  I could imagine myself walking up the platform ramp, relaxing on a bench seat and watching the post-railway world pass.

The members of the Smallford Project have been keen to point out that 2015 will be one of those important years in the railway world.  One hundred and fifty years ago, and with the line just laid, Smallford Station was opened.  It was known as Springfield Station then, but that's beside the point.  One hundred and fifty years, folks!  Doesn't that sound like a reason to celebrate?  And when celebrating, don't we cut cakes and raise glasses?  I should say so.  Watch this space – or rather, watch the space on www.smallford.org    And may I be the first to say to the station (for it IS still there) : happy birthday !