6th April 2019 · Branch visit to Arlington Fleet Eastleigh

14 Chichester members plus a guest from Surrey branch enjoyed an escorted tour of the Eastleigh works site. Our lead guide, Norman, was an expert on all things connected with the site and his entertaining commentary and banter a bonus. We were able to walk through most of the site, only a couple of areas, including the paint shop, being restricted. Many unique photo shots were captured, for private use only. For those old enough to remember, memories returned of this vast complex full of steam locomotives under repair or overhaul. For a site that at one time looked likely to close for ever a remarkable amount of work was being undertaken. Interestingly, we learned Arlington is very much a facilitator, hiring out sections of the site to others, performing work they may not necessarily do themselves.Facilities are also provided to the Heritage Railway sector and we were able to explore, externally, the newly refurbished ‘Bubble Cars’ destined for the Swanage Railway. Steam was present, albeit solely by Merchant Navy Class 35005 Canadian Pacific.South Western Railway class 442, 444 and 450 units were all present, undergoing refurbishment, and throughout the site there was a multitude of rolling stock and locomotives.So interesting was the tour, we overran our allocated time. Many thanks to Arlington for allowing this visit. A highly recommended tour, by appointment only, booking direct with Arlington Fleet.

With Norman our guide centre front, RCTS members about to leave the Arlington Eastleigh Works site.