External renovation of the Speyside Signal Box at Aviemore

 External renovation of the Speyside Signal Box at Aviemore 

21st to 25th September.

By Colin Frost 

Our first task this time was to complete the replacement of the remaining timber on the south wall and the large beam on the northwest corner of the roof line, so with much measuring and cutting on the saw bench this was completed.   To replace all the areas of rot we have used 21250mm x 220mm of planking, four 100 x 100mm by 2.4mtr posts (to support the veranda) as well as numerous other pieces of timber found around Aviemore shed.  A replacement staircase and handrails have been built in hardwood and this will be placed in position once the scaffolding has been removed.  

South wall timber been replaced.

The replacement beams under the veranda.

We were joined by a squad from p’ way  on Friday, who sanded down the remaining brown paintwork and fitting flashband on the edges of the roof line, and rubbed down and painted the east side roof metalwork (wriggly tin).  Their help was very much appreciated.

Not the easiest surface to work on.

The gable ends being sanded down.

Top coat on one side of the roof.

Over the weekend we were joined by another three members of the Ellon squad who finished sanding down the remaining brown paint and applied a gray undercoat to those areas.  Finally the top coat of ‘pollen’ was applied, on the west wall, as far up the as can be reached, and also to the wall under the veranda.

The South wall painted as high as we can reach.

Top coat painted under the veranda.

This signal box is in daily use when our trains are operating and is essential to the operation of our railway. With thanks to our operating staff that are being patient with us working above, below and around them. The signal box has been showing us that it has been in desperate need of reconstruction to conserve it for the future.  

Thanks to the team; Mike Tough, Neil MacQueen, Roddy McPhee, new volunteer from Kingussie, Simon Hinsley, Dan and Nick Courtier, Jim Pittendrigh, Ray Kenyon  and Colin Frost.

12 panes of glass that are needed were measured up and ordered from Inverness.

Next time; final painting and glazing.