A “rare” 150-year-old signal box could be restored if plans for the work to upgrade it are approved.

Network Rail has applied to the Lake District National Park Authority (LDNPA) to improve the “poor” condition of the signal box at Bootle, near Millom, in Cumbria.

Work would include repointing of the structure, which is by the level crossing at Bootle railway station, rebuilding the chimney and removing redundant equipment.

Planning documents said the building, which was built in 1874, was a “rare surviving example” of the Furness Railway Type 1 signal box.

Network Rail said a recent inspection identified several issues and the work would enable it to preserve the signal box, which is considered a heritage asset.

The LDNPA is considering the application.