Victorian signal box for sale as trackside retreat
AGRADE Two listed former railway signal box in Torquay is back on the market and being auctioned for sale, with a guide price of £54,000.
The unique three-floor, rectangular brick and glass fronted signal box is situated on the platform at Great Western Railway’s busy Torre Station.
It dates back to when the railway station opened in 1848, and has retained many of its historical features such as signal levers and a signalman’s armchair. It is being offered for sale through Paul Fosh Auctions and has planning permission to be converted into a holiday home.
Sean Roper, of Paul Fosh Auctions, said: “We’ve had a great deal of interest from rail enthusiasts and also from local people for the former signal box.
“The top floor of the property is even equipped with all of its, now non-functioning, rows of ancient signal levers and handles and a signalman’s armchair.
“The top-floor signal room has a cast iron, pot-bellied coal-fed stove dating from the age of steam, wood panelling and high ceilings and is flooded with light from the panoramic windows,” he added. “What makes this of particular interest is that the railway line to the English Riviera at Torquay is still very much in use both by tourists, commuters and by school children.
“We’ve built up a fair reputation for having individual, quirky lots at our auctions among the more traditional properties, and this is most certainly among the most unusual we’ve offered over the years.
“I’d say the property would be just perfect for the avid train spotter or perhaps a holiday home owner who wants to be able to go on a weekend away and simply step from the train and be at home.
“The signal box is within walking distance of Torquay’s beach and attractions. It really is a wonderful opportunity for those who prefer something a little bit different,” Mr Roper said.
The accommodation comprises three floors with proposed plans to have a snug ground-floor living area, first-floor bedroom with en suite, and the third floor having an openplan dining room and kitchen.
Torre railway station, which has two platforms in use, is a suburban station on the Riviera Line in Torquay, Devon.
The railway station is 219 miles from London Paddington. The station is managed by Great Western Railway but is not staffed.
The railway station, with its ornate main buildings and intricately designed passenger footbridge, was designated a world heritage site in January, 1975.
The former signal box will be auctioned at an online sale between Tuesday, February 2, and Thursday, February 4. For more details, visit www.pauldfoshauctions.com