With two main lines now released for steam traction in TSW, how about a change of pace with a little branch line where we can potter around with a little tank engine working pick up freight or local passenger services. The Highworth branch left the GW Main Line at Highworth Jn, about a mile east of Swindon station and ran for around 6 miles initially through an industrialised area, before breaking out into rural countryside and finishing at the small town of Highworth. The line was an early candidate for closure with passenger trains withdrawn in 1953 and freight by 1962. A short spur remains at the Highworth Jn end to serve a scrap metal dealer. Highworth branch line - Wikipedia A lovely version of the route was created many years ago for MSTS and the site with details still survives today. Swindon & Highworth Light Railway (freeuk.com) The only complexity making this route would be representing the massive Swindon Works complex to the west of Swindon station, but some compromise could be accepted as that would not be the core focus of the product. Some licence might also have to be taken with regard to the locomotive(s) and stock provided - although not reference on the site above a GWR 57xx or similar Pannier Tank would be the obvious choice as useable on future GW/BR(W) routes as would a GWR "B" set for the passenger service. With some further licence a small GW tender loco could also be issued as part of the pack. Even if this particular route is not seen as a viable commercial project, I would still assert there is a place in TSW for a nice steam branch line experience.
