The Clacton Express Preservation Group have now made an agreement in principle to take on a donated complete 4-car ‘Classic' Class 321 in order to preserve it.
Once preservation work is complete, the Mk3 EMU will be the first complete vehicle of its kind to be preserved in the country and will be used in a static display at a new site in Harwich.
The 4 vehicles will take on a new purpose providing space for a Community Cafe, Events Space and Museum. All proceeds made from the vehicles will go on to fund the Clacton Express Preservation Group and will support the upkeep of its heritage vehicles.
The class 321 project will provide support for the group's future plans, which include the aim to create a safe base alongside a small level of steady funding to maintain both sets.
The proposal to take on 321 has been underway since January 2021 prior to the recent issues facing 309, it is hoped that the class 321 project may help to support the group move through this challenging time.
Fundraising is now underway in order to maintain the work of the Clacton Express Preservation Group and to help cover some initial sundry costs in order to get the planned site off of the ground and finalise the agreement, which includes insurance quotes and transportation costs for the track which have been kindly donated already.
To find out more about Clacton Express Preservation Group please visit their website or search for their Facebook page.
The Class 321/3 Renatus should be upgraded with batteries and used as Battery-Electric multiple unit.