A New Signal Box at Darley Dale

The new signal box on its first operational day.

On Sunday, 17th February 2008, Peak Rail opened its new signal box at Darley Dale. The original box was always rather cramped (somewhat resembling a pigeon loft) and the changes required when the signalling was adapted for two-train working made matters even more of a squeeze.

The view above shows the original Darley Dale signal box, with lever brame, block shelf and illuminated diagram. Note the British Rail pattern Absolute Block Instrument in the foreground, which controls movements on the double track section to Church Lane box.

Signalman Flather seen working the new box on its first day. Note that the Block Instrument has moved to its 'proper' position on the block shelf. The new box has a brick foundation and gives more space for the signalman to relax in between trains.

Congratulations are due to everybody involved on this upgrade, especially Dominic and Peak Rail S&T Department.

More pictures of signalling at Peak Rail.

Peak Rail Signalling

Peak Rail currently operates a distance of just over four miles, extending from Matlock Riverside via an intermediate station at Darley Dale to Rowsley where there is a extensive yard. The section through Darley Dale is double track, signalled by Absolute Block between the signal box at Darley Dale and the signal box at Church Lane. Each signal box controls a number of fixed signals and also a gated level crossing.

The single line between Darley Dale signal box and Matlock Riverside is controlled by a single line Train Staff. Running-round at Matlock Riverside is controlled by a Ground Frame released by the Train Staff.

The single line between Church Lane signal box and Rowsley is controlled by a separate single line Train Staff. Running-round at Rowsley is also controlled by a Ground Frame released by the Train Staff.

The picture above shows the driver's view from a down train approaching Darley Dale. Three successive signals can be seen: Darley Dale's Down Home (with fixed distant for Church Lane below), Church Lane's upper-quadrant bracket signal and the lower-quadrant Midland signal just before Church Lane box. More pictures of Peak Rail signalling.

These arrangements allow two-train running, with trains passing on the double track section at Darley Dale. At present, normal running involves only one train but two trains operate on special days. Two-train working was introduced on 3-Mar-2007.

Two-train working pictures.
Two-train working story.