A table top railway to run model trains will be built on a disused bowling green if plans are granted.
Havering Miniature Railways, the applicant, is seeking to build a raised table for a 45mm track to run mini model trains.
The proposed model railway, 800mm wide with 20ft radius curves, would sit on the old bowling green in Lodge Farm Park, Romford.
The application, P1429.23, was received by Havering Council on September 15 and validated six days later (September 21).
Paul Middleton, director of Ride on Railways near Gallows Corner and volunteer with Havering Miniature Railways, said his late father inspired him into model trains, a hobby from his retirement.
"A track would be a great attraction for Havering," said Paul, who has worked at Ride on Railways for 20 years.
"Large scale model railways are very popular with all ages," he added in the proposal document.
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The old bowling green was handed back to Havering Council in 2009 when the bowls club signed a "deed of surrender", according to the proposal.
Despite an exhaustive search for an alternative function, the bowling green has remained out of public use, the proposal added.
Proposed funding so far has reportedly come from from the Docklands and East London Model Engineering Club and an offer of an interest-free loan.
Sponsorships from members and fundraising efforts are also being considered.
Paul said he was keen to get a wider demographic interested in and using model railways.
"A key objective is to get younger or people with mobility issues to engage with the railway as a hobby," his proposal added.
The railway club has been based at Lodge Farm Park since 2016, but has only been able to run public trains once a month on average.
Paul said his club hopes to make regular use of the site for people to enjoy, given the demand for its services.
"Having looked after this area for many years it would also be nice to see it put back to community use," he added in the proposal.
The status of the application is currently undecided.
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