GWR Route: North Warwickshire Line

Shirley Station: gwrsh493

View of Shirley signal box which located at the Birmingham end of the down platform with a rear window to monitor goods yard traffic. Immediately behind the signal box is the goods yard, access to which was via the siding from the main line from the other side of the goods shed. The height of the signal box appears to be lower than other boxes on the line. The reason being was the limited visibility caused by the low road bridge at the end of the station. Entrance to the signal box was via the steps which rose from the platform within a rebated area. Whereas it was normal practice to raise the signal box to provide a clear view down the line, this practice would restrict the signalman's view. Note the rural outlook behind the box, the oil lamp post and the short flight of steps into the box. C1930

back