HISTORIC train services have been taken off the tracks because the volunteer group that has run them for 30 years has been locked out of its Eveleigh workshop.

The Limited Large Erecting Shed is functional and has been used every weekend by volunteers from rail group 3801 Limited since 1986.

The non-profit group, which takes its name from the 3801 steam train, has used the facility to restore and maintain heritage diesel carriages and locomotives that take tourists and train enthusiasts on rail adventures.

Transport for NSW took over the shed at Eveleigh Railway Workshop precinct after a review determined the 3801 group must clear its equipment out with a view to share the space with other heritage operators.

media_camera The group have struggled to find a suitable location for its huge collection.

Project officer Todd Rowling said his group and the vast amount of equipment and gear it possessed had nowhere to go. All upcoming trips have been cancelled.

“After 30 years of service we have been locked up and we can’t run our trains,” he said.

A Transport for NSW spokesman said the department had offered assistance to find an alternative site for 3801 Limited.

“However, as with other private businesses, the overall responsibility for finding and relocating to another site lies with 3801 Limited,” he said.

media_camera 3801 Limited takes its name from the famous steam engine.

“We are exploring options for the shed that would allow heritage organisations to use the facility for short-term stabling and provisioning for tourist train trips operating out of Central and other metropolitan stations.

“3801 Limited would be welcome to use the facility under these terms.”