POP Idol judge and impresario Pete Waterman is to be approached for help in the project to bring life to the disused rail sheds at Craven Arms.

Pete is not only a TV star, he is also an avid rail buff. Consultants to the Craven Arms Carriage Sheds Regener-ation Association hope he might help in the plan to refurbish the buildings.

The Association met last week and received a report from W.M. Consultants, under the management of South Shropshire District Council.

"The report gave detailed acquisition and development costs, which were generally higher than expected, and projections for potential income," said Association secretary Tony Willetts.

"On the positive side, the detailed business plan did demonstrate projected longer-term viability for the proposals."

The plans are to refurbish the disused carriage sheds to house a visitor centre with a "living steam" museum, caf and gift shop, hi-tech offices and training workshops.

The scheme includes re-laying of the disused tracks to enable locomotives to run occasional excursions.

David Edwards, line development officer for the Heart of Wales line, enthusiastically outlined his vision for a terminus at Craven Arms for tourist and commuter use.

However, a cause for concern was the rapidly deteriorating condition of the roof of the buildings, some of which has completely collapsed, said Mr Willetts.

Council officers would contact Network Rail, the sheds' owners, and ask if it would consider removing the roof rather than demolishing the buildings completely.

"This would give us more time to seek and secure funding for the project," added Mr Willetts.

m By Michael Baws