Q&A

Good turnout at the Q&A on Saturday evening, and some very useful ideas put forward.

We were advised that the passenger total for 2010 would be in the region of 225,000. Unfortunately, as the budget was based on 240,000, this means inevitably an impact on the financial results. It is generally regarded as 1,000 passengers equalling £10,000 in revenue.

And so to the targets for 2011.

The Hampton Loade insurance claim for business interruption and materials damage is progressing; anyone involved with insurance claims will know that they take a lot of time and effort to get a final result. We are assured that this in now in sight.

Half a mile of track a year is to be replaced.

Arley (plus Sandbourne) works (see Mudlines) will cost £500,000, which will cost the company interest on the loan repayment.

Resort-based attractions did well in 2010, including heritage railways. Midland/NE attractions are having difficulties.

Coal usage is being monitored; unfortunately the cost of coal is increasing (as are all utilities and raw materials), thus the coal bill is some £300,000+ yearly.

33-35% of our turnover is consumed by payroll costs - this is typical for the industry, and certainly not the highest.

The 2011 budget is currently based on 219,500 passengers, but this was planned before the unfortunate withdrawal of Tornado's visit.

Car parking machines will be installed at Bewdley, and Kidderminster, Bewdley and Bridgnorth parking charges will rise to £2.50.

The challenge now is
- new events
- more driver experience courses
- reduction in payroll

Ideas need to be
- quick to achieve
- not reliant on large injection of manpower

Communication was a big issue. How we communicate is crucial. Volunteers need to be feel valued. Ratio of paid vs volunteer needs to change. A cascade system was suggested, to get urgent information to volunteers.

Money making outlets are being planned to work around the timetable.

Less coal is being used now than 5 years ago; figures will be publicised monthly in future.

Plant can work 24 hours a day, even though the same operator can't - ie more staff trained to use the plant we have, eg road railer training.

Two-train timetable considered not good for walkers - little choice in train times puts off visitors.

We had to use our own financial reserves to top up flood repairs, now this needs to be replenished.

The base cost of our railway is too high - 250,000 passengers per year is the most we can hope for.

Employ people when there is value for money.

Reducing utility costs - whose responsibility is it?

So the challenge to members is - ideas wanted!

Two ways of submitting them. Either email or phone the general manager direct - 01299 403816 or svrgm@svr.co.uk or email us at mailbox@bridgnorthstation.co.uk and we will pass them on. Either way, please copy any ideas to us, to keep a record.

www.bridgnorthstation.co.uk