Land train takes new track to promote town centre

But this weekend a land train will be taking a 30-mile diversion – to promote the delights of the Humber Bridge, a farmer’s market and the centre of Hessle.

The idea is to boost trade in Hessle Square, a 10-minute ride away from the Bridge car
park, where the successful monthly market is being held on Sunday.

Bringing the train – which travels at just 5mph – to Hessle was the brainchild of East Riding councillor Paul Hogan.

Coun Hogan, ward member for Hessle, said: “One of the frustrations is the geography of Hessle.

“We have a fantastic bridge, the car park, the foreshore and the Square, but unfortunately they are not very well joined-up.”

“We were racking our brains about how we could get people who visit the Humber Bridge farmer’s market and get them into Hessle to buy some food
and drink, “ added the coun-
cillor

“These are tough times and every small town across the region needs to use every asset they can.”

The two-day trial will run on Saturday starting from the car park at 10am (until 5pm) and Sunday (10am to 4pm) and is free.

It is hoped the land train will return if it proves popular.

Cabinet member Coun Jane Evison said: “The council’s land trains are extremely popular with both residents and visitors in Bridlington and I am sure they will be well-used over the weekend in Hessle.

“The trial is a great way for the council to support the economy and provide a link between the town centre and the Humber Bridge and Country Park, which are popular attractions in the East Riding.”

Visitors to Bridlington won’t lose out - the land train coming to Hessle is one of two owned by the council.