Benalla’s historic railway signal box next to the Nunn St rail crossing is set to be removed in the coming months.
An Australian Rail Track Corporation spokesperson said it has now restricted public access to the signal box.
“The precaution is necessary for the safety of the community, the rail corridor and our workers,” the spokesperson said.
“It follows the advice of an independent structural engineering report commissioned by ARTC which found the disused building is unsafe and must be removed.
“ARTC recognises the value of the building to the local community, and we will be working with them to consider future options for the rail precinct.”
Better Benalla Rail Member David Moore said the group was shocked to find this out in the same week the Rose City is due to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the first steam train arriving in Benalla.
“This is a disgraceful and a tone deaf response to consistently expressed community wishes to see the signal box restored and repurposed,” Mr Moore said.
Mr Moore said he believes this decision is similar to the decision to demolish the historic station tower and dining rooms decades ago.
“Better Benalla Rail is sure many people will feel a sense of outrage and despair,” he said.