Work will begin in March on the construction of a purpose-built visitor centre for the Severn Valley Railway displaying up to ten steam locomotives in pristine condition.
The go-ahead for the Shropshire-based project follows confirmation of a #3.3 million grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.
The Engine House Severn Valley Visitor Centre will be built on part of the ten-acre former landsale yard at the south end of the Highley goods yard, and will display cosmetically-restored locos awaiting their turn for overhaul at Bridgnorth Locomotive Works.
The new facility, to be developed as an educational resource for schools parties as well as regular visitors, will cost #4.5 million - the balance of #1.2 million being met by grant aid from the European Regional Development Fund.
SVR general manager Alun Rees described the lottery cash as "manna from heaven".
