Over the years, exposure to the elements and vandalism had deteriorated the locomotive's condition. In 1980, the Friends of the Fell Society was formed with the intention of restoring H 199 for static display. Restoration began in 1981, and in 1984, the locomotive was moved into the new Fell Engine Museum adjacent to the playground.
The locomotive's deterioration over time was due to exposure to the environment and malicious damage. In 1980, the Friends of the Fell Society was established with the goal of saving H 199 for display purposes. The restoration process began in 1981, and by 1984, the locomotive had been relocated to a new museum near the playground.