A RAILWAY signal box that is nearly 140 years old is set to be demolished for a newer system.

Bosses at Network Rail have submitted a Certificate of Lawfulness to Pendle Council to allow them to demolish the Brierfield Signal Box.

In the application a Network Rail spokesman said: “The crossing proposal includes the implementation of new technology that requires pre-determined detection zones and clear lines of site.

“The crossing is classified as an automatic crossing not requiring an onsite attendant for day-to-day operations. This has lead to the gate box becoming obsolete.

“As the crossing operation is impinged by the gate box and the box will be obsolete the demolition is proposed and re-control to Preston Power Signal Box.

“The gate box overlooks the Leeds and Liverpool Canal and is located adjacent to Brierfield Railway Station.

“The box is was constructed in 1876 and constructed by the Lancashire and Yorkshire railway to serve local textile and cotton mills long since closed.”