Signal Box on the Portishead Line

Hobbler · Post by **Hobbler** » Sun Dec 14, 2008 2:16 pm

I have a vague recollection of a signal box situated on the Portishead line that stood on the opposite bank of the Avon to Sea Mills station .

Does anyone know the name of this box and its purpose or is my memory playing tricks ?

stantheman · Post by **stantheman** » Sun Dec 14, 2008 8:34 pm

This box was Oakwood signal box on the passing loop between No 3 tunnel and Ham Green Halt.

I have tried to obtain a photo of the box with no success.

Hobbler · Post by **Hobbler** » Sun Dec 14, 2008 10:22 pm

Thanks Stan.
Oakwood must have been one of the lonliest boxes in the Bristol area although the houses in Sea Mills Lane were only a few yards away across the river they may as well have been on another planet .I wonder how the signalman got to the box - the nearest road access must be Clifton Bridge or Ham Green - a heck of a walk or bike ride . I suppose he may have come out with the first train and back with the last if the box was not manned 24/7 , I certainly cannot think of any housing in the vicinity on the Somerset bank.