The spotlight on... The Hincaster Trailway Group

 Every month we will feature a different voluntary, community, faith sector or Social Enterprise (VCFSE) organisation across the Bay. This time the spotlight is on...The Hincaster Trailway Group. 

The Hincaster Trailway Group (HTG)a community based support group formed in 2008, working to develop the old branch line into a local resource to be maintained in perpetuity. The group has been a charity since 2014.

The railway line from Hincaster to Arnside in South Cumbria was originally in use from 1876 until 1942 and, like many small lines, was rarely economic. The rails were removed in 1966.

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Why was your organisation founded?

HTG said: “HTG was founded in 2008 to encourage the development of the disused Hincaster to Arnside Branch railway line as a multi-user path for the benefit of users of all abilities.”

What services does your organisation offer?

HTG said: “HTG have successfully developed 1km of multi user route at Hincaster and this is accessible for walkers, cyclists, horse riders and wheelchair/ mobility scooter users. 

“The development of the route has been a community effort with many local organisations getting involved. 

“HTG is very happy to facilitate any groups which want to get involved with our projects or which need a space for their own project.”

How many people use your services every year?

HTG said: “The Hincaster Trailway has countless users and is a well-loved local asset. It is free to use and open 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year.”

Feedback from people using the service:

HTG said: “The most recent project during lockdown has been Trailway Histories, an oral history project funded by Heritage Lottery. 

“The feedback from those taking part has been 100% positive and the whole project has been    fantastically well received.  As a result we have created a permanent archive of memories about the Hincaster Arnside Branch Line in living memory.”

Can you tell us about any future projects?

HTG said: “In spring 2023 we aim to renovate the bird boxes along the Trailway. Many of these were originally made by pupils from local schools and are in need of a little TLC.”

Are there any opportunities to get involved?

HTG said: “HTG welcomes new supporters and our events are promoted locally and through our website http://www.hincastertrailway.co.uk and our ‘Hincaster Trailway’ Facebook page.”

A PDF version of the case study can be found here.