The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
My name is Richard Brader, I am a trustee of the St James Deeping Signal Box Group.
Our aim is to see the rebuilding of the Deeping St James signal box which was deemed to be in the path a Network Rail modernisation programme and was sympathetically deconstructed just over three years ago.
The signal box was built in 1845 and opened for use in 1849. Initially, Network Rail’s plans were to completely demolish the box but after many objections and intervention by our local MP, John Hayes, visits to Downing Street, meetings with the Transport Minister and much media coverage, it was agreed the box would be sympathetically deconstructed, cleaned and stored until we could rebuild it. They also agreed that any damaged items would be replaced, like for like.
With this agreement in place, a small committee set about fundraising to bring the rebuild from an idea to a reality.
Over the past two years, we have received a grant of £20,000 from The Department of Culture, which has enabled us to purchase a plot of land close to its original location.
Another local group, Deeping St James United Charities, has agreed to purchase the land from us, to rent at a peppercorn rate so that we have a fund of £20,000 to help with the rebuild costs.
Local company, Manor Roofing is supporting us by offering to refit all the roof slates when that stage is reached. We have also made an arrangement with the construction department of New College, Stamford, which, as part of its community work, is keen to enlist its trainee bricklayers, carpenters, electricians etc., to help with the project. Even the open prison service are helping with labour.
The whole project will be overseen by local building company Princebuild, who will provide us with project management advice. Funds have been raised locally by small events and the sponsorship of the bricks. More fundraising sources are also being investigated.
We are now in a position to launch the rebuild and on March 10 our local MP dug the first turf at a much publicised opening with the build starting in September when Stamford College returns after the summer break.
The rebuild will be an historic event, enabling our old signal box to be used as a heritage and educational centre for future generations to enjoy.
The whole campaign has received great interest from people who want to preserve local history and who value the contributions that the railways have made to our world over generations.
The project also shows what can be achieved by determination and community spirit and is therefore of great value.
Mr Richard Brader
Trustee
St James Deeping Signal Box Group
