Cornwall’s Oldest Working Railway Signal Box is Closing

Image: By Geof Sheppard 

Get ready to say goodbye to a cherished relic from the past as Par’s iconic signal box, a historical gem with roots dating all the way back to 1879, is scheduled to cease operations in the spring of 2024. This significant decision marks the onset of a pioneering digital transformation that promises to reshape the future of Cornwall’s railway systems.

A Relic of Victorian Engineering

The Par signal box, originally built to the first Great Western Railway (GWR) standards, has been a fixture in Cornwall’s railway landscape since 1879. It initially controlled the GWR’s mainline route to Penzance and the junction for the Newquay branch, showcasing the ingenuity of Victorian engineering.

Evolving Over Time

Over the years, the Par signal box has seen significant upgrades. In 1913, it underwent a transformation with the replacement of its frame, resulting in a new frame equipped with 57 levers. Furthermore, a panel was added to oversee the railway section extending to St Austell and Burngullow, reaching as far west as the now-closed Probus and Ladock railway station. The signals controlled by Par bear the unique identifier ‘PR.’

Preserving Our Railway Heritage

In July 2013, the Par signal box received the esteemed Grade II listing, joining the ranks of 26 “highly distinctive” signal boxes. This recognition came from Ed Vaizey, the Minister for the Department for Culture, Media, and Sport, in a collaborative effort by English Heritage and Network Rail to safeguard and provide insight into railway operations history.

Embracing the Digital Age

The impending closure of the Par signal box, alongside similar decisions for Lostwithiel and Truro, marks a momentous shift towards digital railway management. This transformation promises heightened efficiency and innovation throughout Cornwall’s railway network.

As we prepare to bid farewell to the Par signal box, we honour its enduring legacy in Cornwall’s railway history.