Early in 2002 a group of St Albans residents decided that the signal box at the end of their road had been left to decay for 25 years too many. It could surely be put to a better use than a pigeon nesting box (they get in through the cracks in the boards). So we looked at possibilities and talked to a few people and the end result is a determination to save the Grade 2 listed signal box, as the only other alternative is to let it disintegrate. We also discovered that it has a rare Midland Railway tumbler interlocking lever frame - worth saving we're told !

In order to accomplish this goal, we have formed a Building Preservation Trust. As a registered charity, we can solicit donations and apply for grants which have enabled us to lease the signal box from Network Rail and restore it. Many costs will have to be covered, not least of which is the safety and security of a building approximately 15ft from a live high speed train line. Once the building is restored the second phase of the plan will begin, to secure its long term viability as a community resource and heritage attraction. This will involve restoring the signal box to working condition and installing a simulated signalling system to replicate the procedures used in the box's working life. It is anticipated that the lock room (the ground floor) will be used as a meeting room, and the surrounding land will be turned into a 'signalman's garden' open to the public.