Sherwood Forest Railway heritage centre has had plans approved to turn a disused farm building into a locomotive and rolling-stock shed.

The one mile steam ride, which operates in Edwinstowe, near Mansfield, is a 5/8th scale, 15" gauge railway running through the Nottinghamshire countryside. The site also includes an adventure play area, under five's play area, toilet facilities and a picnic site.

The railway has been in operation since 2000 and has been extending its track length every year since opening. The line now has two crossings, a tunnel and two stations along the 1,700-yard track.

Clearing out the old building has already started in preparation for the new track to be laid, which will allow access for locomotives, coaches and wagons.

The railway, which is run on a not-for-profit basis, will also be launching an appeal to help fund the project.