The Great Central Railway has opened a new education facility, the Robinson Centre, marking a significant step forward for skills development and heritage preservation at the renowned heritage line.
Situated at the railway’s historic locomotive repair works at the north end of Loughborough station, the Robinson Centre has been designed to support apprentices learning traditional engineering skills while also welcoming school groups and community visitors. The centre is equipped with modern teaching technology to help learners understand both the heritage and the engineering expertise that underpin the railway’s operations.
Alongside the construction of the new centre, the project included a major refurbishment of the railway’s existing locomotive shed. The improvements—such as resurfaced walkways, clearly defined visitor routes, new material racking, and replacement cladding—have enhanced safety, organisation, and weather protection in the busy workshop where historic steam locomotives are restored and maintained.
In total, the development represents a £780,000 investment in safeguarding the railway’s future. For the Great Central Railway, a volunteer-led, not-for-profit organisation, the new centre is a vital asset that will help protect and pass on traditional engineering expertise. It also creates new opportunities for young people to engage with railway heritage and develop practical skills.
Malcolm Holmes, General Manager at the Great Central Railway, said the centre will play a key role in ensuring the railway’s history “remains alive for the future” by inspiring the next generation of engineers and enthusiasts.
The project was backed by Loughborough Town Deal with £280,000 of funding.
To find out more about the Great Central Railway, visit its website.
