Train pulls out of station after 50 years

THE last train of its kind in the world was moved for the first time in 50 years yesterday.

Locomotive Number 36, the historic Great Southern and Western Railway locomotive on display in Cork’s Kent Station since 1950, was moved into temporary storage to ensure its safety during the e4 million revamp of the railway station.

It will be reinstated behind a glass curtain wall close to its former location when the revamp is completed in April.

Number 36 is the only surviving broad gauge locomotive of its class anywhere and is considered an industrial artifact of global significance.

It has been on display in Kent Station since 1950, with the exception of a brief display in Inchicore in 1958.

The locomotive was moved out from under the train station canopy at lunchtime yesterday and was hauled by winch along specially installed rail sections.

It was later lifted by crane to a compound within the Kent Station site where it will remain covered and protected for the duration of the station improvement works.

Kent Station is being redeveloped at a cost of e4m to cater for a major expansion in services, including the introduction of an hourly service between Kent and Dublin’s Heuston Station later this year. The planned reopening of the Midleton line will also increase passenger numbers.

Commuters have been warned to expect disruption during the refurbishment.

Customers with special needs should contact the station on 021-4557010 for details while the works are being carried out.