Last September we reported about Network Rail’s plan to demolish the historic Llanelli West Signal Box, and how Llanelli could lose another part of its industrial heritage.
At the time we were asked by the Llanelli and Mynydd Mawr Railway Company (LMMR) to contact CADW to see if it could be listed.
We’ve just heard that the listing has been successful with CADW noting that it has been:
Included for its special historic interest as the only surviving example of a GWR type 2 signal box in Wales, believed to be the fourth oldest surviving signal box in Wales.
However, you would think that this would mean that this historic box will not be demolished but CADW say that:
Listing will not necessarily prevent the demolition of this signal box. It is not meant to be a preservation order or a block on development, but rather a planning marker designed to sympathetically manage change in historically and architecturally important properties.
However, it does mean that if there are any development proposals to alter the building in a manner which materially affects its special character, such as demolition, then permission known as listed building consent (lbc) will need to be obtained before works can begin.
It is unlawful to carry out works without such consent.
It is Carmarthenshire County Council, as local planning authority, that has responsibility for both development and listed building control (LBC) within its area. Each application for lbc is considered on its merits in the light of the Welsh Government’s Land Use Planning Policy – Planning Policy Wales – and circular guidance which explain the need to protect a listed building’s historic and architectural character where alteration works are proposed.
In line with the circular guidance, applications for lbc need to be supported with strong evidence to justify the proposed works and this should extend to an examination of any less intrusive alternatives, where these are available.
It is hoped now that something can be done to try and save the box from being demolished, Des Thomas of The LMMR told us:
“We welcome the fact that it’s been listed and if it has to be removed from its current position then we would give it a home in Cynheidre so it would be preserved for posterity.”
We have contacted Network Rail for a comment on the future of the Box but as yet have received no reply.
Picture:
Llanelli West Ground Frame signal box located alongside the Down Main line by Glanmor Road level crossing. Monday 19th July 1982. http://www.flickr.com/photos/ingythewingy/4242351710/ by Ingy The Wingy
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