Ware Level Crossing

[Harry Douthwaite]

For most, probably a mundane and otherwise insignificant location on the national rail network, but in 1960 it had 'continental' gates installed which as far as I know, were unique. Honking great big things at 28' long. The closest barriers in resemblance today are NRS ones, which are now beginning to dwindle in numbers across the network.

Anyway in the case of Ware, these barriers remained in service until the early 2000s when the line was resignalled, from local control and searchlight signals to the modern IECC from Liverpool Street with newer incandescent lights.
Although I've found some silent footage from a Pathe recording, there isn't anything with sound from when I was a kid in the 1990s. I was just wondering if anyone might actually have some to share.
As a side note I'm also interested in other level crossings in the area, from Cheshunt to Roydon, including the one which no-longer exists near Broxbourne Junction.

 

[Andy873]

A good place to start would be to join the Signal Box site, it's free to join.

The Signal Box – EVERYTHING ABOUT BRITISH RAILWAY SIGNALLING

signalbox.org

Level crossings have a close association to signalling, and on the above site the are plenty of knowledgeable people who might know about this crossing and the others you mention.

Andy.

 

[55002]

Have a look on flikr for ware station, there’s an old,picture of a 305 with the set of 4 barriers back in the 1978 I assume. This one below doesn’t answer the question but does look a longer set of barriers.

Ultramar - Railway Station, Ware, 1972ish

This is a simply fantastic photo. It captures the era of the early 70's perfectly. There is a fine double decker bus, a lovely view along the railway station as it was then, some lovely period cars and amazingly a pub next to the Ultramar sign called the Spread Eagle - co-incidence - maybe not...

www.flickr.com

theres a far better one on there from 1960 from Chris Stanley too, you can see 4 longer barriers, which to be honest look too long for the road!!

 

[Magdalia]

Have a look on flikr for ware station, there’s an old,picture of a 304 with the set of 4 barriers back in the 1978 I assume.

The EMU in that picture is a class 305.

 

[55002]

The EMU in that picture is a class 305.

Yes apologies, typo..