Last call for 1920s signal box

 A 1920s signal box on the London Underground (LU) is finally being phased out of use and will become a visitor attraction. 

Though the signalling system has been operating safely, and although it was in its day remarkably complex, LU now needs to use new technology that is capable of running trains even closer together to give Londoners the high-frequency service they need. The system at Edgware Road will be upgraded as part of a vast programme of modernisation; introducing new technology that will reduce journey times and deliver a 33 per cent boost in capacity on the four lines by the early 2020s. Once completed there will be trains every two minutes across much of this part of the network in central London.

Mark Wild, London Underground’s Managing Director, said: 'Upgrading the Circle, District, Hammersmith & City and Metropolitan lines will enable us to increase capacity for millions of our customers. At the same time, it’s important to us that we recognise the significance of earlier technological advances made by London Underground.

'When the Edgware Road signalling cabin is honourably retired as part of our modernisation programme, it will have been in use for nearly a century. We aim to provide safe public access to the cabin in the future so that Londoners can share in this unique part of the Capital’s transport history.'

London Underground is the oldest underground railway in the world and still has buildings in use dating as far back as the 1860s.