More traditional signalling is vanishing from Network Rail

THE ONGOING modernisation of signalling across Network Rail continues, with some bastions of traditional signalling set to disappear before the end of the year.

Just after this issue of Railways Illustrated closed for press, work began on replacing the semaphore signalling around Bridlington, on the Hull to Scarborough line in East Yorkshire. Rail services were replaced by bus services from October 23-31 while Network Rail removed all of the semaphore signals that have dominated the area in favour of modern colour light signalling.

Unlike many resignalling schemes taking place throughout the rail network, the signalbox at Bridlington is not set to be abolished, although the traditional lever frame is being replaced by a new modern NX panel. In the North East, Whitehouse and Middlesbrough signalboxes are due to be closed on November 13, with their operating areas being transferred to the Network Rail Regional Operating Centre at York. Both signalboxes, dating from 1874 and 1877 respectively, are set to be demolished.

Another signalbox due to be abolished in the near future is Elmham & Creswell Junction, on the Nottingham to Worksop Robin Hood Line. The signalbox, located on the long section of the route between Worksop and Shirebrook, is due to be taken out of use during the autumn.

Left: 37401 Mary Queen of Scots heads through Bridlington station, working a York Thrall to York Thrall Railhead Treatment Train on October 8. 37402 Stephen Middlemore 23.12.1954 – 8.6.2013 was on the other end of the train. The semaphore signals at Bridlington have now been replaced with colour light signalling. Anthony Hicks

Right: East Midland Railway 158812 works a Nottingham to Worksop service past the signalbox at Elmton & Creswell Junction, near Creswell station on August 23. The Robin Hood Line signalbox is due to be abolished in the next few months. Dafydd Whyles