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EMBSAY STATION SIGNALBOX
The 1923 Midland Railway signalbox at Embsay
The current Embsay Station signalbox (so called as there was also an Embsay Junction signalbox) is not the original
structure from the line's opening in 1888. This 'box was replaced in 1923, at the dawn of Grouping, for reasons not fully
known, although it was assumed that the box tried to slip down the embankment! This 1923 replacement (a Midland 4D wooden
signalbox, although opened under the LMS) is still standing, following a very thorough rebuild, and still controls
Embsay Station. It is now busier than at most times during its history!
The lever frame in the signalbox is of Midland Railway design, using tappet interlocking and four and a half inch lever
spacings. This design was much more common as made by REC. Each one of the 20 levers are in use currently, and with plans to
expand this creates a problem! A new frame (from Stanlow & Thornton) has been acquired and will be built up to replace
this frame, which can then move into the demonstration signalbox at Bolton Abbey.
The signalling controlled by the signalbox is almost entirely mechanical, with a mixture of Midland Railway lower quadrant
signals as well as some LMS / BR signals. As and when alterations are required, or signals become due for replacement, Midland
Railway designs are installed.
I have reproduced the current signalling diagram from the 'box - click to enlarge.
Both photos inside the 'box were taken by M.G.Riley. The one to the left shows the slightly out-of-date diagram, behind one
of the track circuit indicators. The other photo is taken from one end of the signalbox, looking towards the station itself,
with a set of coaching stock in platform 1. The lever that has been pulled off is the main crossover - No.6, allowing movement
from the main line into platform 2.
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Both photos inside the 'box were taken by M.G.Riley. The one to the left shows the slightly out-of-date diagram, behind one
of the track circuit indicators. The other photo is taken from one end of the signalbox, looking towards the station itself,
with a set of coaching stock in platform 1. The lever that has been pulled off is the main crossover - No.6, allowing movement
from the main line into platform 2.
