 It was also hoped that the local communities along the line would also be able to make use of the new connection.An agreement for the line's operation was reached with the London and South Western Railway (L&SWR), the operator of the Alton line, with whom the War Department had already collaborated in the construction of the Basingstoke and Alton Light Railway in 1901.Under the terms of the agreement, the LSWR would manage, work and maintain the railway, providing the engines, rolling stock and plant.