Railway signal box from 1800s could become pub

Uckfield railway station's signal box has been vacant for two years

A former East Sussex railway signal box built in 1858 could soon become a micropub.

The signal box at Uckfield railway station controlled the town's level crossing, but was closed in 1991 when the new station was built.

It was used as a taxi office until two years ago and now sits empty. But Three Acre Brewery wants to bring it back to life as a pub.

Brewery co-founder Chester Broad said: "We feel it would be perfect as a local meeting place, where people could gather over one of our craft ales or a coffee."

Three Acre Brewery said the micropub could become a landmark in the town for generations

The brewery has been searching for a suitable place for its pub since January last year, but other venues in Uckfield "proved unsuitable for one reason or another", Mr Broad said.

"We are so excited at the prospect of being able to invest thousands of pounds to revitalise the building which has been such a landmark in the town for generations."

The brewery has submitted a planning application to Wealden District Council.

A decision is expected by 21 May.