[2] They had accumulated a collection of narrow-gauge rolling stock at various other railways and needed a running line.
At Rowsley South the area behind the turntable was found to be suitable and work started on clearing and laying the track.
1998 saw the arrival of the first items of rolling stock, and the two 40-foot containers used as engine sheds.
Top and tail operation was the norm, with a locomotive formed either side of the carriages.
HMRI approval was gained for operations in 2004, and the first DDNGR passengers were carried on Easter Sunday, 11 April 2004.