The volunteer-run heritage railway is planning to transform two acres of disused land into a Woodland Walk and nature sanctuary designed to allow wildlife to thrive.

The museum is looking to raise £2,500 to create a wildlife pond, which will become the focal point of the Woodland Walk.

Once built, the pond will allow the museum’s learning team to deliver interactive wildlife workingshops to families and school children, as well as an engaging programme for children with SEND.

The redevelopment is a partnership between Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums, which manages the museum and heritage railway on behalf of North Tyneside Council, and the North Tyneside Steam Railway Association (NTSRA).

Stephenson Steam Railway Museum is looking to create a Woodwalk Walk and nature sanctuary.

Geoff Woodward, the museum manager, said: “The volunteers have led this development with such enthusiasm and dedication.

“We hope the public will support this worthwhile initiative so that we can turn our ambitious plans into reality for all to enjoy, and most importantly, encourage wildlife to thrive on the site.”

As well as the pond, additional features of the Woodland Walk will also include:

• A sensory walk.

• Educational lodge.

• Wildflower meadow.

• Butterfly field.

• Art displays.

• Bug hotels.

• Reclaimed rail artefact displays.

The campaign is part of Aviva’s ‘Save Our Wild Isles Community Fund’, with all donations made by the public being matched by the Aviva Community Fund.

You can support the Stephenson Steam Railway Museum’s crowdfunding campaign by clicking here.

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Stephenson Steam Railway Museum aims to turn disused land into a Woodland Walk