Oxted signalbox - May 2001

Commissioned in 1987, this box is a fringe-box to Three Bridges signalling centre, which controls the route northwards towards Croydon and the Brighton line.

When it was first opened, this box superseded an earlier mechanical box on this site in addition to those at Hurst Green, Lingfield and East Grinstead.

With the subsequent singling of the Uckfield line, it also took over the functions of boxes at Hever, Eridge and Crowborough.

It was from here on 15 October 1994 that a signalman alerted the emergency services when he realised that a northbound train had passed a signal at Ashurst at danger. The ensuing crash at Cowden claimed five lives.

Thanks to the installation of special warning signals and the commissioning of a 'cab secure radio system', the likelihood of a similar accident happening again is much reduced. (Grid Ref. TQ 394 529)