Application Filed for Restoration of ‘Rare’ 150-Year-Old Signal Box

The potential restoration of a “rare” 150-year-old signal box is pending approval of plans for its upgrade. Network Rail has submitted an application to the Lake District National Park Authority (LDNPA) to address the “poor” condition of the signal box located in Bootle, near Millom, in Cumbria. The proposed work involves repointing the structure, which stands by the level crossing at Bootle railway station, as well as rebuilding its chimney and removing obsolete equipment. Planning documents indicate that the building, constructed in 1874, is a “rare surviving example” of the Furness Railway Type 1 signal box. Network Rail stated that a recent inspection identified various issues, and the planned work aims to preserve the signal box, which is regarded as a heritage asset. The LDNPA is currently reviewing the application.