Volunteer project to rebuild railway structure gives right signals at Peterborough attraction

The ‘Nene Junction’ Signal Box occupied part of Railworld Wildlife Haven from when it was built by the Midland Railway in 1921 until it was removed in the late 1970s.

However, as it was being dismantled, it collapsed.

But now the signal box has been rebuilt, and it will provide a perfect site to watch birds and trains near the centre of Peterborough.

Brian Pearce, from Railworld said: “Many of our volunteers asked about rebuilding the signal box and using the structure as a ‘Bird Hide’ and ‘Viewing Platform.’

“I approached Dean Johnson of Peterborough based ‘A1 Steel Limted’ and asked if they would they design and build a metal base for the project - the answer was Yes. Shaun Chaffe arrived on site and measured up, and within days steel construction had began.”

The volunteers were given help from a number of Peterborough companies, including Perkins Engines, who supplied timber, and BGL who provided paint.

Andrews Building Supplies also donated decking and handrails.

Mr Pearce said: “From start to finish the project took around 18 months and proves beyond doubt how much can be achieved it we all work together.

“It’s been an amazing experience and we are all so proud of what our volunteer have once again achieved.”

The base for the old box is now used as a compost heap, but the lever mechanism was saved and is still in use.

For more information visit http://www.railworld.net/