| These are the semaphores controlling the branch line to Barry Island. Traditional semaphores like these, often connected to mechanical interlocking systems controlled by telegraph, while increasingly rare, can still be found throughout Britain. In contrast, the branch to Barry is one of the newest in Britain, or at least one of the last to have been built in the steam era (newer light and high-speed rail projects are another story, of course), having been completed in 1896. Prior to the lines construction, there had been no road access, although as you can see theres road access now. Barry Island is primarily a seaside resort, although when I was there it seemed smaller than in fact it is. This was probably because I wasnt very interested and didnt walk around much. |