The 5AT Project’s objective was (and remains) to develop the first standard gauge "Second Generation" steam locomotive in the form of the proposed Class 5AT 4-6-0.  The locomotive will be designed using best modern engineering practices and retain the attractive characteristics and aesthetics of the basic Stephensonian concept.  It is intended that the locomotive will act as a suitable demonstrator for SGS technology.

It is recognised that the successful implementation of the 5AT Project will require the creation of a suitable steam locomotive development organisation and recruitment and training of an appropriate steam locomotive design team.

The project also has somewhat broader aims that include:

• Maintaining a presence for steam traction on modern and increasingly congested main lines of the UK and Europe into the foreseeable future;
• Engendering recognition that steam traction can offer economical advantages in favourable circumstances;
• Acting as a springboard for the further development of steam traction, recognising that the technology can offer economic advantages in favourable circumstances;
• Preserving the engineering skills and knowledge required to design and build new main line steam locomotives;
• Creating an interest in modern steam traction amongst engineers, students and future generations of children.

The immediate aims of the project are:

• To publish and circulate the Project Feasibility Study to create greater awareness and interest in the project and begin the serious search for finance;
• To recruit new members with appropriate skills to establish Commercial and Marketing Planning Working Parties (CPWP and MPWP) to further publicize and promote the project.

The next phase will seek to gain rail industry and potential investor interest in the establishment of a Second Generation Steam Locomotive Development Company (SGS Loco DevCo) as described in the Current Plans pages of this website.

Project Aims are described in more detail in the Project Feasibility Study, and are discussed further in the Current Plans section of this website.