Browsing the oldmaps.co.uk site I came across a situation which puzzled me, namely Bassaleg South (Brecon & Merthyr). From this box a connecting line diverged, parallel to the connecting curve of the B&M onto the GWR, linking the B&M with the Alexandra Docks Railway goods lines.
The interesting thing, on the 1902 OS map, is that the first 20 chains or so are single track and double at a tiny box around the curve called "Bassaleg Loop" according to the Signal Box's text database (thanks John).
My question is, this line being goods only, how was the single track portion worked? It was so short, that I cannot imagine any form of staff or token for it. I would guess there was some form of starter slotting implemented.
On the 1921 OS map, the curve is double track throughout, and the 1902 map shows all signs of a major rebuild of the Bassaleg Junction GWR layout, quadrupling the GWR Monmouthshire main line, but no signs of changing the single track were apparent at the time.
Any ideas?
An technical answer has already been given on the Signal Box Forum referring to BoT inspection documents in the National Archives but I wondered:
- could our members add a bit more historical background to help Michiel
- as the topic may be of wider interest, would Q&A in the Newsletter be worthwhile?
I've recommended to Michiel that he considers joining the Circle as he is interested in the railways and collieries of Soutrh Wales, and perhaps some good responses from member may encourage him to part with some subs.
