| THE SIGNAL BOX |
PHOTO GALLERY |
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London, Brighton & South Coast Railway |
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Opened: c1875 |
Closed: 1985 |
Location code: S21/30 |
This design of box is believed to be the
London, Brighton & South Coast Railway's first architectural style,
introduced in 1872. Whilst clearly embodying many features of the
Saxby & Farmer 1868 boxes such as that illustrated
at Mitcham, there are many aspects that differ.
The toplight windows, a speciality of Saxby & Farmer boxes, are absent and the classic support brackets in the S&F designs are also absent. The cladding is of vertical timbers, joined and secured by battens. This rugged-looking design appeared at various locations around the LB&SC through to 1878, and were probably erected by the company themselves although fitted out with Saxby & Farmer lever frames. From 1879, LB&SC boxes were built to the more ornate design shown at Bedhampton Crossing.That company continued to supply a good proportion of the LB&SC's requirements with their standard designs throughout this era.
Cooksbridge, located on the secondary Keymer Junction to Lewes route, led a charmed 110 years' existence controlling a small station and level crossing from a Saxby & Farmer Rocker frame. This frame had started life with 14 levers, but was increased over time to total 21 to accommodate new features and more up-to-date practices.
The box was abolished on 13th February 1985.
All photographs copyright © John Hinson unless otherwise stated