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Is it the end of the line for popular land train?
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| UNCERTAIN FUTURE: The Hengistbury Head Land Train passes the Rangers Lodge, where it is currently stored |
THE popular Hengistbury Head land train could be left without a home and forced to stop running.
The "noddy train", as it is commonly called, takes tourists and walkers through the nature reserve to Mudeford spit at Christchurch Harbour.
The council plans to turn its depot into a visitor's centre - and no replacement base has been found.
A spokesman for the land train, which is privately owned and operated, said: "The council said the train is too old and doesn't meet modern expectations.
"If they could have seen it on Sunday when we had three full trains running all day, they would see how it meets expectations.
"We have been asking and asking what is going to happen to us. We have been told almost nothing. We feel we are in the dark."
The train currently operates out of the council-owned Rangers Lodge. The nearby Marine Centre does not have the right facilities to house the train, said the council.
And Roderick Watkins, proprietor of nearby Solent Meads golf course, said it had no suitable facilities.
East Southbourne and Tuckton councillor Basil Ratcliffe said: "It's a very serious problem. It's a local feature which we can hardly afford to lose. Tourists will be asking where it's gone."
The train celebrated its 40th birthday in April. It employs four full-time staff and up to another four or five seasonal staff.
Bournemouth council had no comment to make on whether it believed the train failed to meet modern expectations. But its business development manager Chris Saunders said: "We will be working with the train operator to find a workable solution for the land train storage.
"There are a number of
different options available and an appraisal of these with the operator still needs to take place."
1:00pm Wednesday 14th May 2008
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CommentPosted by: PokesdownMark, Pokesdown on 1:54pm Wed 14 May 08
Modern expectations?! Do the council want one that tilts when it goes round corners?
Modern expectations?! Do the council want one that tilts when it goes round corners?
Posted by: norbitonpaul on 1:57pm Wed 14 May 08
Isn't the appeal of Hengistbury all about getting out and trampling over that wonderful headland? Not riding a rather silly little train.
The walk along the road the train uses is no more than about ten minutes up to Muddeford Spit.
If you want to ride a toy train, there's one that runs along the Bournemouth seafront.
Isn't the appeal of Hengistbury all about getting out and trampling over that wonderful headland? Not riding a rather silly little train.
The walk along the road the train uses is no more than about ten minutes up to Muddeford Spit.
If you want to ride a toy train, there's one that runs along the Bournemouth seafront.
Posted by: fedupwithjobsworths, Moordown on 2:03pm Wed 14 May 08
If Bournemouth Council gets involved we will probably end up with a 300 foot long train shed on Mudeford Sandbank :-)
If Bournemouth Council gets involved we will probably end up with a 300 foot long train shed on Mudeford Sandbank :-)
Posted by: alumchineboy, Alumchine on 2:12pm Wed 14 May 08
is not about giving pleasant experiences but its about making money and this new centre will earn the council thousands. Yet again, another enjoyable facility is at risk so that the 'visitors' can have a better experience and no doubt stay in the hotels that some of the council senior staff own.
Hardly a day goes by when tourists are mentioned as a priority for the council yet our roads and footpaths are crumbling ( in Westbourne anyway.
Who do the council work for ? Its certainly not the people who pay their rates locally.
is not about giving pleasant experiences but its about making money and this new centre will earn the council thousands. Yet again, another enjoyable facility is at risk so that the 'visitors' can have a better experience and no doubt stay in the hotels that some of the council senior staff own.
Hardly a day goes by when tourists are mentioned as a priority for the council yet our roads and footpaths are crumbling ( in Westbourne anyway.
Who do the council work for ? Its certainly not the people who pay their rates locally.
Posted by: GRIFF, Christchurch on 2:12pm Wed 14 May 08
Typical council, what are they on about modern expectations!
It is a great train, remember when I used to go on it as a kid, will be a loss to the area - no everyone is able to walk, kids, elderly people, add great value to the area.
Typical council, what are they on about modern expectations!
It is a great train, remember when I used to go on it as a kid, will be a loss to the area - no everyone is able to walk, kids, elderly people, add great value to the area.
Posted by: Richard, Bournemouth on 2:20pm Wed 14 May 08
The Land Train is of far more use than a visitor centre will ever be. There are enough information signs dotted about to keep the interested informed.
Has the Council considered that withdrawing the train will prejudice the enjoyment of disabled members of the public by denying them easy access to Mudeford Spit?
The Land Train is of far more use than a visitor centre will ever be. There are enough information signs dotted about to keep the interested informed.
Has the Council considered that withdrawing the train will prejudice the enjoyment of disabled members of the public by denying them easy access to Mudeford Spit?
Posted by: mr_c_cooke, Bristol on 2:25pm Wed 14 May 08
My old grandparents recently visited Hengitsbury Head with my young nieces and without the train wouldn't have managed the walk without the famous noddy train. I think without the train people won't be too bothered about going to the spit and the businesses on the spit will lose a lot of business.
My old grandparents recently visited Hengitsbury Head with my young nieces and without the train wouldn't have managed the walk without the famous noddy train. I think without the train people won't be too bothered about going to the spit and the businesses on the spit will lose a lot of business.
Posted by: GeoffS, Bournemouth on 2:38pm Wed 14 May 08
My four year old likes to walk to the head and the ice cream shop but is often asleep or tired out after, so the train back makes a great end to his little day out. The council is supposed to think of everyone including the young and old when making such decisions and depriving those who aren't Olympic walkers (like norbitonpaul) of this useful little train will mean a lot less custom at both ends.
My four year old likes to walk to the head and the ice cream shop but is often asleep or tired out after, so the train back makes a great end to his little day out. The council is supposed to think of everyone including the young and old when making such decisions and depriving those who aren't Olympic walkers (like norbitonpaul) of this useful little train will mean a lot less custom at both ends.
Posted by: Tim M, usa on 2:44pm Wed 14 May 08
... and what will a visitor's centre include? If experience of visitors centres is anything to go by, it'll be a gift shop selling pointless and expensive tat staffed by people who can't answer questions and don't care, and that most British of attractions, the grubby overpriced caff with 19th century toilets. After 18 months it'll deteriorate and the reason given will be that there isn't funding in the budget to support it.
... and what will a visitor's centre include? If experience of visitors centres is anything to go by, it'll be a gift shop selling pointless and expensive tat staffed by people who can't answer questions and don't care, and that most British of attractions, the grubby overpriced caff with 19th century toilets. After 18 months it'll deteriorate and the reason given will be that there isn't funding in the budget to support it.
Posted by: Mark, Bournemouth on 3:26pm Wed 14 May 08
I am very surprised that 'elf an safety' rather than accomodation problems have not put this little train out of service long ago. Not only should the Hengistbury Head one go but also the lucrative land train along Bournemouth Sea front.
Tourist attractions that people enjoy! We can't have that going on.
I am very surprised that 'elf an safety' rather than accomodation problems have not put this little train out of service long ago. Not only should the Hengistbury Head one go but also the lucrative land train along Bournemouth Sea front.
Tourist attractions that people enjoy! We can't have that going on.
Posted by: bobble212, Christchurch on 3:56pm Wed 14 May 08
IF THE NODDY TRAIN GOES I AM GOING !!!!!!!!!!!!
IF THE NODDY TRAIN GOES I AM GOING !!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Trifecta, Southbourne on 4:44pm Wed 14 May 08
"Isn't the appeal of Hengistbury all about getting out and trampling over that wonderful headland?"
This wonderful headland is disappearing and anything that keeps the great unwashed from destroying it even more is very welcome!
Keep the train please!!!!
"Isn't the appeal of Hengistbury all about getting out and trampling over that wonderful headland?"
This wonderful headland is disappearing and anything that keeps the great unwashed from destroying it even more is very welcome!
Keep the train please!!!!
Posted by: palexgo, earth on 6:36pm Wed 14 May 08
If a visitors centre is going to be a commercial success a private company would be willing to create and run it. In truth it will, as with all similar local government 'ideas', consume huge amounts of council tax for a few years before being closed down.
Local authority activities need to be seriously constrained. This weekend I walked past the site of the fountain in Boscombe High Street and drove past Poole Council's park & ride car park. Both were, predictably, a complete waste of time and money.
If a visitors centre is going to be a commercial success a private company would be willing to create and run it. In truth it will, as with all similar local government 'ideas', consume huge amounts of council tax for a few years before being closed down.
Local authority activities need to be seriously constrained. This weekend I walked past the site of the fountain in Boscombe High Street and drove past Poole Council's park & ride car park. Both were, predictably, a complete waste of time and money.
Posted by: Clarance, Bournemouth on 7:31pm Wed 14 May 08
Now - if the council ran the land train - would it colse? Scant regard for the elderly and infirm, the young and less-abled who use this system of cheap alternative transportation.
A tourist centre? Waste of space and expense for the tax payers.
Face it, it does not just 'fit' into someones ideal.... sad really.
QED
Now - if the council ran the land train - would it colse? Scant regard for the elderly and infirm, the young and less-abled who use this system of cheap alternative transportation.
A tourist centre? Waste of space and expense for the tax payers.
Face it, it does not just 'fit' into someones ideal.... sad really.
QED
Posted by: Tricky Dicky, twixt here and there on 8:03pm Wed 14 May 08
[bold]What blithering[/bold] idiots [bold]B'mouth council are[/bold] . [bold]Utter[/bold] and absolute fools.
Get a [bold]blinking grip[/bold] and start [bold]serving[/bold] the people you purport to serve, and stop piling on anxiety after anxiety on everyone. WHAT IS THE MATTER WITH YOU ALL?
[bold]I hope[/bold] so many bods kick up a fuss , that you won't be showing your faces for a while. The whole town has been asset stripped and dumbed down- engage your brains if you have any, and think hard-about what [bold]is your[/bold] purpose???
What blithering idiots
B'mouth council are .
Utter and absolute fools.
Get a
blinking grip and start
serving the people you purport to serve, and stop piling on anxiety after anxiety on everyone. WHAT IS THE MATTER WITH YOU ALL?
I hope so many bods kick up a fuss , that you won't be showing your faces for a while. The whole town has been asset stripped and dumbed down- engage your brains if you have any, and think hard-about what
is your purpose???
Posted by: Charlie on 8:06pm Wed 14 May 08
Norbitonpaul, will you swap legs and feet with me please. I'd love to "trample all over the headland", but it's all I can do to walk 20 metres on the flat. I'm glad you can do it, but please think of people other than yourself.
Norbitonpaul, will you swap legs and feet with me please. I'd love to "trample all over the headland", but it's all I can do to walk 20 metres on the flat. I'm glad you can do it, but please think of people other than yourself.
Posted by: rich on 8:23pm Wed 14 May 08
[quote]"The council said the train is too old and doesn't meet modern expectations.[/quote] eh !!!? this is what makes it so special, as a kid i used to love seeing the noddy train, im 40ish now & my kids were the same. why fix something if its not broke, i really cant understand thier thinking behind it !!!
"The council said the train is too old and doesn't meet modern expectations.
eh !!!? this is what makes it so special, as a kid i used to love seeing the noddy train, im 40ish now & my kids were the same. why fix something if its not broke, i really cant understand thier thinking behind it !!!
Posted by: Christopher, Wallisdown & Winton West on 9:12pm Wed 14 May 08
I swear blind I heard the council was out to improve the town to bring in more visitors. Yet again they go in reverse and threaten to remove something else.
The idea of Hengistbury Head is to see how the nature, the form of the head is all about. People want to see it with their own eyes, not in some glass house with lots of pictures.
Hence the train is a viable tourist attraction and has been so for 40 years. So why take it away now. Every day one sees many elderly, infirmed, and parents with toddlers, who prefer to use the train for those reasons. Take this away, and you take a large number of visitors.
Go on Bournemouth Council wreck something else in the town.
I swear blind I heard the council was out to improve the town to bring in more visitors. Yet again they go in reverse and threaten to remove something else.
The idea of Hengistbury Head is to see how the nature, the form of the head is all about. People want to see it with their own eyes, not in some glass house with lots of pictures.
Hence the train is a viable tourist attraction and has been so for 40 years. So why take it away now. Every day one sees many elderly, infirmed, and parents with toddlers, who prefer to use the train for those reasons. Take this away, and you take a large number of visitors.
Go on Bournemouth Council wreck something else in the town.
Posted by: PETE WOODLEY on 9:23pm Wed 14 May 08
[quote][bold]Christopher[/bold] wrote:
I swear blind I heard the council was out to improve the town to bring in more visitors. Yet again they go in reverse and threaten to remove something else.
The idea of Hengistbury Head is to see how the nature, the form of the head is all about. People want to see it with their own eyes, not in some glass house with lots of pictures.
Hence the train is a viable tourist attraction and has been so for 40 years. So why take it away now. Every day one sees many elderly, infirmed, and parents with toddlers, who prefer to use the train for those reasons. Take this away, and you take a large number of visitors.
Go on Bournemouth Council wreck something else in the town.
[/quote] Shall i start the revolution or will you.They are not listening.
Christopher wrote:
I swear blind I heard the council was out to improve the town to bring in more visitors. Yet again they go in reverse and threaten to remove something else.
The idea of Hengistbury Head is to see how the nature, the form of the head is all about. People want to see it with their own eyes, not in some glass house with lots of pictures.
Hence the train is a viable tourist attraction and has been so for 40 years. So why take it away now. Every day one sees many elderly, infirmed, and parents with toddlers, who prefer to use the train for those reasons. Take this away, and you take a large number of visitors.
Go on Bournemouth Council wreck something else in the town.
Shall i start the revolution or will you.They are not listening.
Posted by: Solitaire, christchurch on 9:39pm Wed 14 May 08
Perhaps it's the name "Noddy Train" that Bmth Council don't like. [bold]Rename it IMAX and they'll give it the thumbs up.[/bold] Bunch of useless twazzocks without a modicum of common sense among them.
Perhaps it's the name "Noddy Train" that Bmth Council don't like.
Rename it IMAX and they'll give it the thumbs up. Bunch of useless twazzocks without a modicum of common sense among them.
Posted by: Christopher, Wallisdown & Winton West on 9:48pm Wed 14 May 08
They do listen Peter when one writes to them also. Let the games begin.
They do listen Peter when one writes to them also. Let the games begin.
Posted by: caroline, somerford on 10:19pm Wed 14 May 08
typical council idiots. i loved this train when i was a child and now i enjoy taking my children on it. some of these councillors should try walking to mudeford spit laden with buggy,kids,picnicand the rest of the million items one has to take or maybe they could sit in a wheelchair and get there under their own steam. i agree with solitaire - bunch of useless twazzocks.
typical council idiots. i loved this train when i was a child and now i enjoy taking my children on it. some of these councillors should try walking to mudeford spit laden with buggy,kids,picnicand the rest of the million items one has to take or maybe they could sit in a wheelchair and get there under their own steam. i agree with solitaire - bunch of useless twazzocks.
Posted by: Chris McColl, Bournemouth on 11:49pm Wed 14 May 08
"Isn't the appeal of Hengistbury all about getting out and trampling over that wonderful headland?"
Then why the hell do you need a visitors centre to explain those delights. Have we reached a situation where everything has to be an 'experience', with childlike graphics explaining the 'importance and meaning' of the area ?
Whether the well heeled outsiders will take to the idea of actually carrying all their stuff down to their overpriced sheds is another matter. Perhaps they could cough up a few quid (saved on train fares) and paint the trains brown whilst renaming them Gravy trains. Then let the councillors, consultants and other assorted hangers on use them to ride round the town looking at the mess they've made elsewhere.
"Isn't the appeal of Hengistbury all about getting out and trampling over that wonderful headland?"
Then why the hell do you need a visitors centre to explain those delights. Have we reached a situation where everything has to be an 'experience', with childlike graphics explaining the 'importance and meaning' of the area ?
Whether the well heeled outsiders will take to the idea of actually carrying all their stuff down to their overpriced sheds is another matter. Perhaps they could cough up a few quid (saved on train fares) and paint the trains brown whilst renaming them Gravy trains. Then let the councillors, consultants and other assorted hangers on use them to ride round the town looking at the mess they've made elsewhere.
Posted by: wage slave, throop on 12:51am Thu 15 May 08
"Too old & doesn't meet modern expectations"- sounds just like this council to me.
"Too old & doesn't meet modern expectations"- sounds just like this council to me.
Posted by: Charlie on 8:19am Thu 15 May 08
[quote][bold]wage slave[/bold] wrote:
"Too old & doesn't meet modern expectations"- sounds just like this council to me.[/quote] Sounds like me too, and all the elderly and infirm!
wage slave wrote:
"Too old & doesn't meet modern expectations"- sounds just like this council to me.
Sounds like me too, and all the elderly and infirm!
Posted by: nickboy, West London on 8:55am Thu 15 May 08
[quote][bold]Mark[/bold] wrote:
I am very surprised that 'elf an safety' rather than accomodation problems have not put this little train out of service long ago. Not only should the Hengistbury Head one go but also the lucrative land train along Bournemouth Sea front. Tourist attractions that people enjoy! We can't have that going on.[/quote] Exactly, 21st century Britain.
Fun ? Enjoyment ? Making peoples experiences a pleasant one ? Nope, sorry mate, we can't allow that , misery and despair for all is all that matters.
Mark wrote:
I am very surprised that 'elf an safety' rather than accomodation problems have not put this little train out of service long ago. Not only should the Hengistbury Head one go but also the lucrative land train along Bournemouth Sea front. Tourist attractions that people enjoy! We can't have that going on.
Exactly, 21st century Britain.
Fun ? Enjoyment ? Making peoples experiences a pleasant one ? Nope, sorry mate, we can't allow that , misery and despair for all is all that matters.
Posted by: patrick stack, downmoor.ch on 11:51am Thu 15 May 08
I WAS ALWAYS TOLD THAT BOURNEMOUTH WAS A PLACE FOR, WAIT FOR IT, PENSIONERS AND BEING ONE OF THEM I SAY , EITHER KEEP THE TRAIN OR THE PENSIONERS .
I WAS ALWAYS TOLD THAT BOURNEMOUTH WAS A PLACE FOR, WAIT FOR IT, PENSIONERS AND BEING ONE OF THEM I SAY , EITHER KEEP THE TRAIN OR THE PENSIONERS .
Posted by: Mrs. Beryl West, bournemouth on 12:22pm Thu 15 May 08
I remember when this train first arrived! it was so hated by locals that it was tipped over the cliff1
Now it is a wonderful asset.
Like many others taking small children out for the day. A pleasent walk up to to the beach, and a ride back was my godsons idea of heaven.
As well as for us laden with push chairs , bags etc.
the people that rattle on about "the wonderful walk" are lucky. I know struggle
and the train is a boon.
Are people like myself to be denied our local beautiful country side.
Shame on you Bournemouth Council I would like to say if I was not acussed of slander 2I wounder which pocket is being lined" so I willnot say it just think it.
I remember when this train first arrived! it was so hated by locals that it was tipped over the cliff1
Now it is a wonderful asset.
Like many others taking small children out for the day. A pleasent walk up to to the beach, and a ride back was my godsons idea of heaven.
As well as for us laden with push chairs , bags etc.
the people that rattle on about "the wonderful walk" are lucky. I know struggle
and the train is a boon.
Are people like myself to be denied our local beautiful country side.
Shame on you Bournemouth Council I would like to say if I was not acussed of slander 2I wounder which pocket is being lined" so I willnot say it just think it.
Posted by: Angus, Bournemouth on 3:15pm Thu 15 May 08
Visitor's Centre, pahhh! Hengistbury Head doesn't need it. Come on Bournemouth Council, if you don't like the train then provide a new one.
Visitor's Centre, pahhh! Hengistbury Head doesn't need it. Come on Bournemouth Council, if you don't like the train then provide a new one.
Posted by: Dorset Red, Dorset on 5:47pm Thu 15 May 08
Whilst I am no fan of our Tory council I find it ironic that people are moaning about a council they only voted for LAST YEAR!!!
I bet at least half these people didn't bother to vote and the majority couldn't even tell you who is actually on this council they are so keen to criticise! I suspect many of them don't even know the authority has changed.
I'm sorry folks, but you get the council you deserve. If you don't like it, vote against it!
Whilst I am no fan of our Tory council I find it ironic that people are moaning about a council they only voted for LAST YEAR!!!
I bet at least half these people didn't bother to vote and the majority couldn't even tell you who is actually on this council they are so keen to criticise! I suspect many of them don't even know the authority has changed.
I'm sorry folks, but you get the council you deserve. If you don't like it, vote against it!
Posted by: scooteria, Westbourne on 6:34pm Thu 15 May 08
I'm sure if the train had a buffet bar to cater for our Council's favourite type of visitor a depot would soon be found.
I'm sure if the train had a buffet bar to cater for our Council's favourite type of visitor a depot would soon be found.
Posted by: Carl Barron, Dorset on 8:22pm Thu 15 May 08
Posted by: Tricky Dicky, twixt here and there on 8:03pm Wed 14 May 08
[bold]Quote [/bold] [bold]What blithering idiots[/bold] [bold]B'mouth council are[/bold] . Utter and absolute fools.
[bold]Get a blinking grip[/bold] and start serving the people you purport to serve, and stop piling on anxiety after anxiety on everyone. WHAT IS THE MATTER WITH YOU ALL?
[bold]Reply [/bold] Very well said [bold]Tricky[/bold] .
You take the words right out of my mouth so to speak.
The Council are [bold]totally disregarding[/bold] the important fact that [bold]young children and elderly[/bold] cannot make [bold]such a long walk[/bold] to Mudeford SandBanks.
Are we to [bold]disallow those people[/bold] [bold]the right to enjoy a lovely day at the Beach[/bold] just because of some [bold]stupid[/bold] bunch of Councillors who can't see the wood for the trees?
Posted by: Tricky Dicky, twixt here and there on 8:03pm Wed 14 May 08
Quote What blithering idiots B'mouth council are . Utter and absolute fools.
Get a blinking grip and start serving the people you purport to serve, and stop piling on anxiety after anxiety on everyone. WHAT IS THE MATTER WITH YOU ALL?
Reply Very well said
Tricky .
You take the words right out of my mouth so to speak.
The Council are
totally disregarding the important fact that
young children and elderly cannot make
such a long walk to Mudeford SandBanks.
Are we to
disallow those people the right to enjoy a lovely day at the Beach just because of some
stupid bunch of Councillors who can't see the wood for the trees?
Posted by: Mark, Christchurch on 11:12pm Thu 15 May 08
The conversion of the barn to a visitor center is yet another example of the councils ability to manage. With out the train their could be far more environmental impact with the increase of visitors foot fall on the head.
The powers that be seem intent on the reduction of use to a site given to the town in the last century for its use by the people. As for the marine training center mentioned in the report this is also still under threat as the tendering has not started and could close in September. COME ON BOURNEMOUTH YOU NEED TO CATCH UP WITH THE NEEDS OF THE PEOPLE.
The conversion of the barn to a visitor center is yet another example of the councils ability to manage. With out the train their could be far more environmental impact with the increase of visitors foot fall on the head.
The powers that be seem intent on the reduction of use to a site given to the town in the last century for its use by the people. As for the marine training center mentioned in the report this is also still under threat as the tendering has not started and could close in September. COME ON BOURNEMOUTH YOU NEED TO CATCH UP WITH THE NEEDS OF THE PEOPLE.
Posted by: Nighthawk, Bournemouth on 11:29am Fri 16 May 08
[quote][bold]norbitonpaul[/bold] wrote:
Isn't the appeal of Hengistbury all about getting out and trampling over that wonderful headland? Not riding a rather silly little train.
The walk along the road the train uses is no more than about ten minutes up to Muddeford Spit.
If you want to ride a toy train, there's one that runs along the Bournemouth seafront. [/quote] Totally agree with you, but you seem to be blind to the real reason The Noddy Train has survived all these years.
I am a local lady, born and bred in Bournemouth, therefore on the subject of this lovely old train that I first rode on as an 8 year old child 40 years ago. Please refrain from describing it as a "rather silly little train". It is the jewel in the crown as far as I am concerned and much loved by myself and many others alike.
I have enjoyed many a happy ride on this lovely old train and hope to continue to enjoy rides well into my old age.
It is not a toy train, but a very well used, fully functioning, very pleasurable means of hitching a short ride to the famous "Spit" , especially on a hot summers day. I have even seen Dogs travelling on The Noddy Train, with their owners, and they too seem to enjoy the experience. Hengistbury Head would not be the same without this lovely local tourist attraction, affectionately called The Noddy Train by locals.
Therefore, keep your selfish opinions to yourself, and remember whilst it is important to take exercise in life, it is also important to have fun too. This is known as mental stimulation, which is just as important. Taking a ride on this train is very mentally stimulating. For myself, and I am sure, many others too, it serves as a very happy reminder of the many happy days I spent at this lovely location, in the sixties, on a lovely summers day, as a child.
Why change something that has brought so much pleasure to so many people, over such a long period. It's a magnet that attracts much needed tourists and revenue to the area, as well as bringing pleasure to the local folk.
norbitonpaul wrote:
Isn't the appeal of Hengistbury all about getting out and trampling over that wonderful headland? Not riding a rather silly little train.
The walk along the road the train uses is no more than about ten minutes up to Muddeford Spit.
If you want to ride a toy train, there's one that runs along the Bournemouth seafront.
Totally agree with you, but you seem to be blind to the real reason The Noddy Train has survived all these years.
I am a local lady, born and bred in Bournemouth, therefore on the subject of this lovely old train that I first rode on as an 8 year old child 40 years ago. Please refrain from describing it as a "rather silly little train". It is the jewel in the crown as far as I am concerned and much loved by myself and many others alike.
I have enjoyed many a happy ride on this lovely old train and hope to continue to enjoy rides well into my old age.
It is not a toy train, but a very well used, fully functioning, very pleasurable means of hitching a short ride to the famous "Spit" , especially on a hot summers day. I have even seen Dogs travelling on The Noddy Train, with their owners, and they too seem to enjoy the experience. Hengistbury Head would not be the same without this lovely local tourist attraction, affectionately called The Noddy Train by locals.
Therefore, keep your selfish opinions to yourself, and remember whilst it is important to take exercise in life, it is also important to have fun too. This is known as mental stimulation, which is just as important. Taking a ride on this train is very mentally stimulating. For myself, and I am sure, many others too, it serves as a very happy reminder of the many happy days I spent at this lovely location, in the sixties, on a lovely summers day, as a child.
Why change something that has brought so much pleasure to so many people, over such a long period. It's a magnet that attracts much needed tourists and revenue to the area, as well as bringing pleasure to the local folk.
Posted by: Nighthawk, Bournemouth on 11:41am Fri 16 May 08
[quote][bold]Richard[/bold] wrote:
The Land Train is of far more use than a visitor centre will ever be. There are enough information signs dotted about to keep the interested informed.
Has the Council considered that withdrawing the train will prejudice the enjoyment of disabled members of the public by denying them easy access to Mudeford Spit? [/quote] I Totally agree Richard, and I am a long term sufferer of Rheumatoid Arthritis myself. (Since the age of 16) I currently take a huge cocktail of drugs, (and have been for the past 30 years +), as well as having to inject myself with Anti TNF and Methotrexate.
Whilst I am able to walk, I am frequently in severe pain. I am also a local person and have been using this lovely train ever since I was a child. I am now 48.
I have left a comment elsewhere on this page in response to norbitonpaul, if anyone is interested in reading it.
Richard wrote:
The Land Train is of far more use than a visitor centre will ever be. There are enough information signs dotted about to keep the interested informed.
Has the Council considered that withdrawing the train will prejudice the enjoyment of disabled members of the public by denying them easy access to Mudeford Spit?
I Totally agree Richard, and I am a long term sufferer of Rheumatoid Arthritis myself. (Since the age of 16) I currently take a huge cocktail of drugs, (and have been for the past 30 years +), as well as having to inject myself with Anti TNF and Methotrexate.
Whilst I am able to walk, I am frequently in severe pain. I am also a local person and have been using this lovely train ever since I was a child. I am now 48.
I have left a comment elsewhere on this page in response to norbitonpaul, if anyone is interested in reading it.
Posted by: Maria, christchurch on 1:06pm Fri 16 May 08
My family will be so upset if we lose this train. Surely it's an attraction in itself, always seems to be full when I visit. My children love riding on it, yes it's only a 10 minute, but wheres your sense of fun norbitonpaul, were you never young. We walk over and catch the train back, my children love it.
My family will be so upset if we lose this train. Surely it's an attraction in itself, always seems to be full when I visit. My children love riding on it, yes it's only a 10 minute, but wheres your sense of fun norbitonpaul, were you never young. We walk over and catch the train back, my children love it.
Posted by: PETE WOODLEY on 1:26pm Fri 16 May 08
[quote][bold]Dorset Red[/bold] wrote:
Whilst I am no fan of our Tory council I find it ironic that people are moaning about a council they only voted for LAST YEAR!!!
I bet at least half these people didn't bother to vote and the majority couldn't even tell you who is actually on this council they are so keen to criticise! I suspect many of them don't even know the authority has changed.
I'm sorry folks, but you get the council you deserve. If you don't like it, vote against it![/quote] Exactly,even yesterday only 35% voted.Yet they do not want,anything happening to branksome wreck.
Dorset Red wrote:
Whilst I am no fan of our Tory council I find it ironic that people are moaning about a council they only voted for LAST YEAR!!!
I bet at least half these people didn't bother to vote and the majority couldn't even tell you who is actually on this council they are so keen to criticise! I suspect many of them don't even know the authority has changed.
I'm sorry folks, but you get the council you deserve. If you don't like it, vote against it!
Exactly,even yesterday only 35% voted.Yet they do not want,anything happening to branksome wreck.
Posted by: Carl Barron, Dorset on 2:47pm Fri 16 May 08
Posted by: Nighthawk, Bournemouth on 11:29am today
[bold]Quote [/bold] Why change something that has brought so much pleasure to so many people, over such a long period. It's a magnet that attracts much needed tourists and revenue to the area, as well as bringing pleasure to the local folk.
[bold]Reply [/bold] Well said [bold]Nighthawk[/bold] .
Is there are [bold]more sinister side[/bold] to why Bournemouth Councillors are trying to [bold]off put people[/bold] going to Mudeford Sandbanks. Perhaps they want to [bold]build Miami Style[/bold] Residences on the Large stretch of beach [bold]on a par with Poole Sandbanks[/bold] aimed at the very rich?
[bold]In all honesty[/bold] I have seen and photographed an amazing [bold]vast investment of Moines to secure the Coast line[/bold] of Mudeford Sandbanks [bold]from coastal erosion[/bold] by the sea. This has caused a vast increase in land space by rapid accumulation of sand, etc.
You may view some of this [bold]transformation[/bold] together with views in link below and compare pictures taken April 04. with those taken August 03 You can see how [bold]the coastal defences have been vastly improved[/bold] .
[bold]Copy paste[/bold] link into browser:
http://dorsetvisualg
uide.co.uk/sail_sand
_seaside.htm
Posted by: Nighthawk, Bournemouth on 11:29am today
Quote Why change something that has brought so much pleasure to so many people, over such a long period. It's a magnet that attracts much needed tourists and revenue to the area, as well as bringing pleasure to the local folk.
Reply Well said
Nighthawk .
Is there are
more sinister side to why Bournemouth Councillors are trying to
off put people going to Mudeford Sandbanks. Perhaps they want to
build Miami Style Residences on the Large stretch of beach
on a par with Poole Sandbanks aimed at the very rich?
In all honesty I have seen and photographed an amazing
vast investment of Moines to secure the Coast line of Mudeford Sandbanks
from coastal erosion by the sea. This has caused a vast increase in land space by rapid accumulation of sand, etc.
You may view some of this
transformation together with views in link below and compare pictures taken April 04. with those taken August 03 You can see how
the coastal defences have been vastly improved .
Copy paste link into browser:
http://dorsetvisualg
uide.co.uk/sail_sand
_seaside.htm
Posted by: noddy01, the gore on 6:30pm Fri 16 May 08
wouldnt it be a suprise if a friend of councillor took over the running of the land train
long live noddy!!!
p.s the council are p.c plodd!
wouldnt it be a suprise if a friend of councillor took over the running of the land train
long live noddy!!!
p.s the council are p.c plodd!
Posted by: jobsworthwatch, Bournemouth on 1:13pm Sat 17 May 08
[quote][bold]fedupwithjobsworths[/bold] wrote:
If Bournemouth Council gets involved we will probably end up with a 300 foot long train shed on Mudeford Sandbank :-)[/quote] ....built without planning permission to the wrong design from the wrong materials painted by kids to look like beach huts!
fedupwithjobsworths wrote:
If Bournemouth Council gets involved we will probably end up with a 300 foot long train shed on Mudeford Sandbank :-)
....built without planning permission to the wrong design from the wrong materials painted by kids to look like beach huts!
Posted by: goodgrief!, southbourne on 9:54pm Sun 18 May 08
I agree that the loss of the 'noddy train' would be a huge mistake & disastrous for Hengistbury Head which would be trampled & littered to death. However I do find it amusing how the nimbys of Southbourne get all het up at the prospect of anything new, yet when they get used to something get all het up at the prospect of losing it...the 'noddy train' is a prime example. Surely the people in charge of the visitor centre development have the wit to develop the barn whilst retaining the train. Don't include the train yard in the plans, it's simple surely.
I agree that the loss of the 'noddy train' would be a huge mistake & disastrous for Hengistbury Head which would be trampled & littered to death. However I do find it amusing how the nimbys of Southbourne get all het up at the prospect of anything new, yet when they get used to something get all het up at the prospect of losing it...the 'noddy train' is a prime example. Surely the people in charge of the visitor centre development have the wit to develop the barn whilst retaining the train. Don't include the train yard in the plans, it's simple surely.
Posted by: gorgeous, Christchurch. on 9:52pm Mon 19 May 08
Are Bournemouth council going to allow disabled people to drive along the road to Mudeford Spit once the train has gone? I suffer terrible pain (including heart)when walking, like other commentors here.The alternative would be to cross from Mudeford Quay but I always find that car park full in Summer, even for disabled and I find climbing on and off the ferry difficult. Bournemouth council is going to open a Pandora's box with this by denying people who can't walk far access to what I consider the most attractive place in Dorset. SHAME? They are too barefaced for that.
Are Bournemouth council going to allow disabled people to drive along the road to Mudeford Spit once the train has gone? I suffer terrible pain (including heart)when walking, like other commentors here.The alternative would be to cross from Mudeford Quay but I always find that car park full in Summer, even for disabled and I find climbing on and off the ferry difficult. Bournemouth council is going to open a Pandora's box with this by denying people who can't walk far access to what I consider the most attractive place in Dorset. SHAME? They are too barefaced for that.
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