After going out of use in 1979 it was left to rot until 2002 when a group of local residents determined to do something with it. A charitable trust was formed and, after nearly 4 years of negotiation with Railtrack and then Network Rail, took possession in 2006. Then the really hard work started. It took 3 years and many thousands of pounds to restore the box and it finally opened to the public for the first time in 2009. It is one of the few preserved boxes on a mainline railway that's regularly open to the public. Upstairs, the box has been restored to it's 1979 condition, complete with working lever frame, block instruments, bells and other signalling equipment. This has enabled us to demonstrate how manual signalling was done and these demonstrations run continuously when we are open. Downstairs, there is a small museum.. There are many signalling items on display, including single line 'tablet' machines, and other railway-related exhibits. Railway videos and a slideshow of the restoration are also shown. The garden has been laid out with flowers, shrubs and lawn and there are working signals and other exhibits on display. Light refreshments are available. The site is fully accessible except for the long flight of steps to the upper floor of the signal box and there is a fully accessible toilet and hand washing facility available on request. Postcode for satnav users is AL1 3AJ. There is ample parking nearby at the Railway Station and in Ridgmont Road. There is no need to book - just come along. Entrance is FREE, but donations are always welcome.
