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We have built a reputation for our wide-ranging knowledge and experience of many UK, European and worldwide narrow gauge heritage railways.
Our extensive and widely recognised work means we are able to advise on all heritage railway requirements and our involvement with heritage narrow gauge railways has been recognised and utilised around the world. Our expertise is most often brought to bear wherever a sound historical understanding of the railway needs to be melded with craftsmanship and modern engineering, whilst at the same time retaining the all important feel of the original engineering. The emphasis we endorse is always on restore rather than renew.
We can work with you on a consultancy basis to provide your own specialist teams with the back-up and knowledge they need to make your project a complete success.
We bring a unique level of research to all our heritage projects. We can work with you throughout your project to help guide you in the design and engineering to ensure details are faithfully recreated and, where it proves necessary or desirable, sympathetically blended with up-to-date technology.
Either as part of a larger restoration project, or as standalone advice, we can provide ongoing maintenance schedules, as well as training if required - we know every project is different which is why we tailor our approach to match your needs.
Whichever option is right for you, Alan Keef Ltd offers unrivalled support and expertise every step of the way. Scroll on down to see our heritage and restoration project gallery.
With the supply of heritage parts becoming increasingly specialised, our consultancy service can help you to source and acquire specialist parts - for help and guidance please get in touch and we'll be pleased to help.
Below is a small selection of images of the many narrow gauge railways that we have worked with over the last 50 years. Our complete gallery can be viewed by clicking here.
The design, delivery and commissioning to the Isle of Wight Steam Railway of the stunning, rebuilt Ryde Pier Tramcar No.2 was the culmination of a project first mooted in 2011.
The design, delivery and commissioning to the Isle of Wight Steam Railway of the stunning, rebuilt Ryde Pier Tramcar No.2 was the culmination of a project first mooted in 2011.
Carrying works number AK98R/17, the Tramcar incorporates components from the original vehicle (Bg/DC1647 of 1927), but is largely an all-new, traditionally constructed vehicle, faithfully replicating its 1927 condition and having been technically adapted for operation on a conventional railway. (First image courtesy of J.C.H. Faulkner.)
This vehicle has now formally entered service and has also been nominated for an award by the Heritage Railway Association.
Our images show the proud team that worked on the project just before the Tramcar left our Mitcheldean workshop.
The Chelmsford Tram restoration project was undertaken for Chelmsford City Council.
The Chelmsford Tram restoration project was undertaken for Chelmsford City Council.
Originally manufactured in Chelmsford for use on Southend Pier, this Tramcar had been in storage for many years before we were commissioned to undertake a full cosmetic restoration and then oversee its installation as the focal point outside the City's museum.
Our images show the finishing touches being put to the tramcar before being transported from our Mitcheldean workshop to Chelmsford.
Nancy is a steam locomotive recently restored to run on the Cavan and Leitrim Railway in Ireland.
Nancy is a steam locomotive recently restored to run on the Cavan and Leitrim Railway in Ireland.
Originally built by the Avonside Engine Company in Bristol, Nancy arrived with us in need of a complete 'ground-up' restoration and was returned to Ireland in 2019. As well as full mechanical overhaul, along with the fitting of a new boiler, side-tanks, cab and bunker.
The most impressive historic build of all - created from next to nothing, these engines were meticulously designed and built by Alan Keef Ltd to run at Beamish Open Air Museum.
The most impressive historic build of all - created from next to nothing, these engines were meticulously designed and built by Alan Keef Ltd to run at Beamish Open Air Museum.
The earliest railways in the UK are faithfully reproduced at the Pockerley Wagonway at the museum. Alan Keef Ltd are immensely proud to have played a substantial part in the manufacure of the two replica locomotives that date from the dawn of railways.
No drawings existed of their deign, in fact, the only reference point for the Steam Elephant was a contemporary painting. Extensive research, working from primary sources, and with specialist designers, both engines faithfully reproduce the appearance of the originals whilst being fully operationally compliant in the 21st century. That this project was conceived, let alone brought to life, is a testament to the dedication and skill of everyone involved and to this day stands out as a particular high point of railway restoration work and in our own company's history.
Restored WDLR Baldwin 4-6-0 for Leighton Buzzard Light Railway.
Restored WDLR Baldwin 4-6-0 for Leighton Buzzard Light Railway.
These locomotives are possibly the most recognisable that were used by the Allies on the Western Front during WW1. Subsequently exported to an Indian sugar mill, this Baldwin was returned to the UK in a totally worn out condition. A full 'ground-up' restoration was undertaken for the Greensand Railway Museum Trust to return the locomotive to steam for operation on the LBLR.
The Volks Electric Railway is a true gem of railway history.
The Volks Electric Railway is a true gem of railway history.
The world's first public electric railway was built in Brighton in 1883 offering a service along the seafront. Now council owned, the railway needed significant investment to secure its future. With Heritage Lottery Funding, three of the original Tramcars were completely rebuilt, retaining as many original components as possible. This highly successful project was completed in 2017 when the Tramcars were returned and entered service on this iconic railway.