The Patons Express Project aims to transform an existing non-utilised asset into a dynamic income generating segment of an overall tourism initiative that will directly involve and contribute to the upliftment the poor and previously disadvantaged rural community.

The largely intact abandoned narrow gauge line between Allwoodburn at Ixopo village and initially Ncalu halt will be re-instated to working order.

A tourist focussed steam or diesel hauled train service will convey both foreign and South African tourists from Allwoodburn to Carisbrooke , Ncalu and return. At the three halts provision will be made for the community members to establish tourism orientated micro-business ventures.

It is intended that the small business initiatives will provide a further link between Patons Express and the local communities through the provision of tours by mini-bus to places of interest incorporating overnight stops.

The target market is made up of

·         Tourists who have an interest in the African Experience.

·         International and South African Steam enthusiasts who are constantly seeking out the remaining steam operated railway lines.

·         International tourists, who are aware of the writings of Alan Paton, especially “Cry The Beloved Country” which is set in part in the Ixopo area.

·         Adventure Seekers and backpackers both local and International

The marketing of the Paton Express Project will be channeled through well-established and dynamic organisations such as the National Department of Tourism, KwaZulu-Natal Tourism, Two Rivers Tourism Association - the Ixopo Tourism Association and commercial tour operators.

Extensive use will be made of Internet to reach South African and Overseas Interest Groups.

The package offered by the Project is unique in that it will include easy access to accommodation in the traditional homes of local communities and appeal to a wide range of interests ranging from African traditional life and customs through nature lovers to steam buffs.

The package will directly benefit from the extensive experience gained in South Africa in the field of upliftment and development initiatives by Government, NGO’s and the business sector.

Research into the success and failures experienced by upliftment projects will ensure that the Paton Express Project will be developed in a business like way.

The initial contact with the traditional representatives, the local political structures, community representatives, local farmers and others has revealed a solid and enthusiastic base of support for the project.

The Patons Express segment of the overall tourism initiative will be managed and operated by the Patons Narrow Gauge Railway – PCNGR formally the KwaZulu Railway Museum, a section 21 company, in close co-operation with the Two Rivers Tourism Association, the TLC, local communities and landowners.

The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Department of Agriculture {South West Region} has indicated that they will fund the construction of simple traditional structures at the respective railway halts.

The cost of the initial rehabilitation of the rail related infrastructure would be minimal due to the support of the Ixopo community and the active involvement of interest groups.

The projected cost of operation will be met from income generated.