An application has been submitted to Sefton Council to save an historic Grade II listed landmark.
The Birkdale signal box was built in 1905 is one of the most important railway landmarks in Merseyside. In recent years the building, which was once a part of the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway, has fallen into a state of disrepair.
Network Rail has submitted an application to carry out “essential” renovation to secure its “long-term structural preservation”. The signal box is located on Weld Road and was made a listed building in 2013.
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In its application, Network Rail said: “The signal box can be said to provide both aesthetic values, as a consequence of its architectural qualities, including the retention of existing features such as original windows, lever frame etc, and historical value as to how the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway was originally conceived and constructed.
“As noted in the List Description, the signal box is a ‘rare surviving example of the hipped roof style of Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway signal box’. Network Rail is proposing to undertake a programme of repair work to the signal box.
"This is needed due to various elements of the structure showing signs of deterioration, which is resulting in the signal box appearing as unsightly. The Signal Box requires full external refurbishment in order to preserve the structural integrity of the building and prevent further degradation.”
Network Rail has outlined a comprehensive plan of refurbishment which consists of repairing damaged and missing sections of the signal box. An over hall of all the frames, replacing broken and missing glazing and removing the existing fence which will be replaced with a 2400mm high steel palisade
Network Rail said: “The package of repair works proposed are all essential to ensure the weatherproofing and long-term structural preservation of the signal box. They will be undertaken using historically-appropriate materials and carried out using sensitive methodologies.
“The works, including the replacement timber cladding, doors, and staircase, will all enhance the visual appearance for the listed structure, and by extension the setting of the Conservation Area. Doing so will facilitate an appropriate and sustainable continued future use of the signal box in its original purpose.
“It is considered that the works proposed are respectful to the character and appearance of the Listed structure. The proposed works which are essential to ensure the longer-term preservation of the signal box will be carried out in a sympathetic manner that harmonises with the context of the surrounding Conservation Area.”
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