The distinctive Hotchley Hill Signalbox now has a block shelf for the first time in decades, plus enamel lighting shades including one rescued from the ditch behind the building!
Volunteers are about to fit the remaining levers, ahead of a programme of installing signals and remodelling track.
Major work has been carried to repair the roof and concrete, install new downpipes, windows and a working stove. A lever frame has been fitted and the floor replaced. With the help of British Gypsum (their
factory to opposite the signalbox) the interior has been plasterboard and painted.
Now the interior fit out is continuing with a block shelf being installed along with heritage style conduit and light fittings.
Period appropriate signalling equipment has been purchased at auction and one day it will be used control trains again.
However, it has proved very difficult to find the Bakelite box indicators which show the signalman how points are set and what signal aspects are displaying. Instead the team are turning to modern technology and
3D printing accurate replicas which are expected to be more durable.
We are therefore are appealing for funds to help purchase the 50 replicas needed for the complicated block shelf inside the box. A pair can be purchased for £25.
Please go to the Hotchley Hill Appeal to help our volunteers to bring the box back to its historic best