As historic signal boxes up and down the country are destroyed the unique 38-lever signal box at Hednesford Station has been relocated to Hednesford Park ready for a new chapter in its life. It is due to open to the public later this year after being restored to its former glory.

Located on the Chase line near Hednesford Station for over 140 years the signal box was earmarked for demolition as part of Network Rails resignalling works.

Leader of the district council, George Adamson commented ‘This is a unique part of Hednesford’s heritage and something that will now be very much unique to Hednesford Park. When it is open, the signal box will be used as a classroom for educational purposes. Children will be able to go inside and play on the pulleys, something they’ve never been able to do before. It’s a really exciting project. The kids are going to love it every bit as much as are train enthusiasts.’

PaSCoE initially undertook a structural assessment of the existing signal box to assess its construction, weight, and determine any requirements for any strengthening measures to enable the signal box to be safely lifted off its existing sub-structure.

Following the structural assessment PaSCoE designed the crane lift at both Hednesford Station and Hednesford Park including the design of the lifting beams, crane type, crane outrigger pads, and ground bearing capacity.

Steven Harper, Senior Engineering Manager at Balfour Beatty Rail Ltd commented ‘The Temporary Works design is one of the best I have seen. Clear and concise layout, not overly complicated and really informed for construction. PaSCoE have done a good job here.’