Campaign for Hayling's Own Heritage Centre

Cliff Robinson of Hayling Light Railway writes why Hayling should have its own Heritage Centre:

Proposed Heritage Centre

For years, Islanders have spoken about the possibility of having a Heritage Centre devoted to the rich history of Hayling Island. Many quality books have been written over many decades providing valuable information about the island’s background, and the occasional exhibition has of course been held, but these are generally ad hoc. A permanent base on the Island, to pull tother these historical threads is really needed, to help share our history with visitors, the local community, and beyond and could be a means of developing support towards fully recognising Hayling islands local distinctiveness

Hayling Light Railway recognised this back in 2013 when plans were put together to build the Eastoke Corner Depot which opened in 2017. This depot was always envisaged as a first phase, with the second phase being to develop a heritage centre adjacent to it.

It was only when the railway became a registered charity in January 2022, that the potential to make the vision become a reality became an exciting possibility   

As a Charitable trust, the railway is now able to have access to grant funding sources, and in a position to source financial support through gift aid schemes and other donations.

The project will require planning permission from Havant Borough Council before proceeding with the various funding options. This clearly necessitate prior consultations with local residents, community groups, and businesses to establish their thoughts and input on the project and how they might be able to get involved with it. We would welcome your thoughts ideas and any experience you can provide as we develop the project.

In addition to serving and supporting the Island’s local community, investing in a heritage centre would encourage visitors and promote tourism.  Many visitors to our railway come from the Holiday Parks and caravan sites on the Island, some that are open all the year round.  These holiday parks already help promote the railway, however adding a heritage centre would help widen knowledge and interest in the Island’s long history providing another source of activity for those staying at the Parks.  The Railway serves customers from a wide area not just Hampshire but from other parts of England, and beyond.  

The centre could also become a source of general education for children and students about the Islands history.

Local groups might also be interested in displaying their work and activities covering a variety of topics including the island’s rich coastal conservation areas, wildlife, military history, coast guard and sea rescue work, local farming and industry and of course railway heritage.

Anyone interested in finding out more or wishes to be involved, is invited to come to a public consultation meeting for residents, businesses, and community groups to be held on Thursday, 29 January 2026 at 7:00pm in St Andrews Church Hall, Southwood Road Hayling Island PO11 9QD

For more information visit our website www.haylinglightrailway.org