Final plans to turn a station into an operational railway and museum have been given the go ahead.
Dorset Council has approved a change of use proposal for Shillingstone station, submitted by North Dorset Railway.
The green light for the 2.3 hectare (5.6 acre) former railway station comes after a 20-year development programme and is the final stage before it can start regular steam and diesel services.
The railway is currently only open to the public three days a week, with occasional bank holiday opening times.
Locomotive movements are currently restricted to days when rolling stock has to be moved for display purposes, exhibition, or training purposes.
The railway group hopes continued improvements to the site will increase visitor footfall in the station café and shop, which helps fund 780m (2,559ft) of track.
A statement from the group said: "Our intention through this application is to be able to run passenger services over the full length of the site.
"Over the last 20 years it has become more than just a heritage railway and museum. It is now a community-based hub in the heart of North Dorset which provides a place for young and old to meet and share interests.
"The proposed change of use would allow greater social, educational and training opportunities for all. It would enhance the railway's attraction as a visitor destination as well as giving enormous pleasure and satisfaction to its volunteers."
It is anticipated trains will run from the station platform eastwards, over the bridge and then return to the station.
The group initially plans to run a small steam locomotive, built in 1960, for passenger services and a diesel locomotive, built in 1959.