Britain's Biggest Model Railway - Powered by Heljan

As Official Traction Partner for 'Heaton Lodge Junction', Heljan will supply locomotives and rolling stock to assist the railway to operate its public events and provide a selection of pre-production samples for display and trials ahead of their public release. BBMR will also provide a tough testing ground for pre-production Heljan O gauge locomotives during the development phase.

At more than 200ft long, 'Heaton Lodge Junction' is set to expand its audience further next year, and significantly raise the profile of the hobby, when it tours UK towns and cities as a unique mobile visitor attraction. Tour dates and locations are expected to be announced later this year.

Heljan chief Kim Nannestad, said: “We’ve never seen anything quite like this before, and we’re delighted to be involved in what is going to be a unique attraction, bringing a new audience to model railways in the UK. Heljan is delighted to support Simon’s extraordinary efforts and to showcase the heavy-duty qualities of our O gauge models in what will be a punishing environment.”

Simon George, the owner of Britain’s Biggest Model Railway, added: “I want to take high-quality railway modelling beyond the traditional, specialist shows and show the British public what this hobby is all about. I’m absolutely thrilled that Heljan is working with me to showcase the trains, technology and skills that make our hobby so special. Having used them for many years, I know that Heljan locos have the power and quality to deliver the kind of heavy-duty traction I need, hauling long freight and passenger trains up the challenging gradients of Heaton Lodge Junction.”

BRM visited the layout in January 2017 to delve into the history of the project and interview its owner and builder. You can buy the issue as a digital download here.