Clayton Equipment CB12 zero emission locomotive design for Bure Valley Railway

Bure Valley Railway, in Norfolk, is the first major heritage railway in the country to invest in a new zero-emission electric locomotive for passenger use.

Clayton Equipment is currently finalising the detailed design, ready for build later in 2023, before supplying Bure Valley Railway with the new CB12 battery Co-Co locomotive to complement their current fleet.

See design picture for illustration purposes.

Bure Valley Railway, Norfolk’s longest narrow-gauge steam and diesel railway regularly attracts over 120,000 visitors per year.

As pioneers for sustainability within the locomotive industry, the net carbon zero-emission Clayton CB12 locomotive will be a first for Bure Valley Railway.

This compliments the drive by the railway to reduce CO2 emissions by addressing the challenges presented by the ageing diesel locomotives whilst at the same time reducing both operating and maintenance costs.

An added benefit of the CB12 locomotive is improved haulage capacity being able to easily cope with the heaviest of trains the railway operates over its 9-mile route with many steep gradients.

The CB12 locomotive will also meet the latest technological standards, driver comfort, accessibility and working conditions, yet being in keeping with a traditional railway.

Clive Hannaford, Clayton Equipment Managing Director said, “We are delighted to provide the CB12 locomotive which will offer long-term cost-effective benefits and meet Bure Valley Railway operational requirements. In line with their sustainability programme and commitment to cleaner, greener railway transport for all, this will improve air quality with sustainable, zero-emission, environmentally-compliant equipment.”