in january 1831 the owner of soundwell colliery asked the company to make a branch there, with a financial contribution from him. the committee were unable to take on the additional commitment, but indicated that they would give him every facility to do the work himself, including the use of the company's wagons and route for the actual construction without charge. in fact this seems to have been done by the company, and quickly accomplished; on 17 october 1831 the branch was ready; the cost of laying it was £716 13s 4d, which was repaid to the k&acc by the colliery owner.